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cac registration portal
Contents
- 1 ✅ How to Check if a Business Name is Available on CAC
- 1.1 How to Log in to the CAC Portal
- 1.2 Can You Download Your CAC Certificate Online?
- 1.3 How to Register Your Business Name by Yourself
- 1.4 How Much Does CAC Registration Cost?
- 1.5 ⏳ How Long Does CAC Registration Take?
- 1.6 Requirements for Business Name Registration
- 1.7 Does CAC Registration Expire?
- 1.8 What Is CAC Annual Return?
- 1.9 How to Know if Your CAC Is Valid
- 1.10 Can You Open a Business Account Without CAC?
- 1.11 ⚠️ What Happens If You Don’t Register Your POS?
- 1.12 What Documents Are Required?
- 1.13 Types of CAC Registrations
- 1.14 How to Choose a CAC Name
- 1.15 CAC vs. CAMA
- 1.16 Is SMEDAN the Same as CAC?
- 2 ️ Who Heads CAC?
- 3 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About CAC in Nigeria
- 4 Conclusion
✅ How to Check if a Business Name is Available on CAC
Before registering, you must confirm that your desired business name is available. Here’s how:- Visit the CAC Public Search Portal.
- Enter your proposed business name.
- If the result is blank, the name is available. If details appear, it’s already taken.
How to Log in to the CAC Portal
To access CAC services:- Go to the CAC Registration Portal.
- Click “Sign Up” if you’re a new user.
- Log in using your email, phone number, or username.
Can You Download Your CAC Certificate Online?
Yes! Once your business is approved, you can download your electronic certificate and Certified Extract directly from your CAC dashboard.How to Register Your Business Name by Yourself
You don’t need a lawyer or agent. Just follow these steps:- Reserve your business name.
- Fill out the pre-registration form (CAC-BNo1).
- Upload the required documents.
- Pay the registration fee.
- Download your certificate once approved.
How Much Does CAC Registration Cost?
- Business Name: ₦10,000–₦15,000
- Limited Liability Company: ₦25,000 and above (depending on share capital)
- Annual Return: ₦3,000–₦5,000 for small businesses
⏳ How Long Does CAC Registration Take?
- Name Reservation: 24–48 hours
- Business Name Approval: 3–7 working days
- Certificate Issuance: Immediately after approval
Requirements for Business Name Registration
- Valid ID (NIN, Voter’s Card, Passport, etc.)
- Passport photograph
- Business address
- Nature of business
- Signature
Does CAC Registration Expire?
No, but you must file annual returns to maintain an active business. Failure to do so may lead to deactivation.What Is CAC Annual Return?
It’s a yearly filing that confirms your business is still operational. It helps maintain your legal status and avoid penalties.How to Know if Your CAC Is Valid
Use the CAC Public Search Tool to verify your registration number and status.Can You Open a Business Account Without CAC?
No. Banks require your Certificate of Authority for Corporations (CAC) certificate, Tax Identification Number (TIN), and other relevant documents to open a corporate account. How to Register a POS Business with CAC Register it like any other business. Choose a name, reserve it, and follow the steps above. Some fintechs may also require CAC documents for onboarding.⚠️ What Happens If You Don’t Register Your POS?
Failure to register your POS business may result in legal penalties and loss of access to financial services, hindering your business’s potential for growth and expansion.What Documents Are Required?
- Valid ID
- Passport photo
- Utility bill (sometimes)
- Signature
- Completed CAC forms
Types of CAC Registrations
- Business Name
- Private Limited Company (Ltd)
- Incorporated Trustees (NGOs)
- Public Limited Company (PLC)
How to Choose a CAC Name
Keep it unique and simple. Avoid restricted words like “national,” “government,” or “bank.” Use the CAC name checker to confirm availability.CAC vs. CAMA
- CAC: The agency that registers businesses.
- CAMA: The law (Companies and Allied Matters Act) that governs business operations in Nigeria.
Is SMEDAN the Same as CAC?
No. CAC registers your business legally, while SMEDAN provides support and funding opportunities. You can (and should) register with both, as they serve different but equally essential functions for your business.️ Who Heads CAC?
Currently, the Registrar-General of the CAC serves as the chief executive. You can find updates on the official CAC website. Registering with CAC provides your business with legal recognition, access to loans and grants, and the ability to open a business bank account. Builds trust with customers and partners. This comprehensive guide will help you understand the process and its benefits.- Legal recognition
- Access to loans and grants
- Ability to open a business bank account
- Builds trust with customers and partners
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About CAC in Nigeria
| No. | Frequently Asked Questions | Answer |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | What is CAC? | The Corporate Affairs Commission is the body responsible for registering and regulating Nigerian businesses. |
| 2 | Can I register my business name online? | Yes, through the CAC portal. |
| 3 | How much does it cost to register a business name? | ₦10,000–₦15,000 depending on the type of business. |
| 4 | How long does CAC registration take? | Typically 3–7 working days after name reservation. |
| 5 | Can I register my school as a business name? | Yes, schools can be registered as either business names or companies. |
| 6 | What documents are needed for registration? | Valid ID, passport photo, business address, and completed CAC forms. |
| 7 | How do I check if a business name is available? | Use the CAC Public Search Tool. |
| 8 | Can I download my CAC certificate online? | Yes, directly from your CAC dashboard once approved. |
| 9 | What is the CAC annual return? | A yearly filing to maintain your business’s active legal status. |
| 10 | How much is CAC’s annual return? | ₦3,000–₦5,000 for small businesses. |
| 11 | Does CAC registration expire? | No, but failure to file annual returns can lead to deactivation. |
| 12 | Can I open a business account without a CAC? | No, banks require CAC documents to open a business account. |
| 13 | How do I register a POS business with CAC? | Register like any business—choose a name, reserve it, and complete online forms. |
| 14 | What happens if I don’t register my POS business? | You risk legal penalties and limited access to partnerships and finance. |
| 15 | Can I register CAC myself without an agent? | Yes, the CAC platform supports self-service registration. |
| 16 | How long does a name reservation last? | 60 days from the date of approval. |
| 17 | What’s the difference between CAC and CAMA? | CAC is the agency; CAMA is the law governing business registration. |
| 18 | Is SMEDAN the same as CAC? | No. SMEDAN supports SMEs while CAC handles business registration. |
| 19 | Is a SMEDAN certificate free? | Yes, registration with SMEDAN is completely free. |
| 20 | How do I confirm my CAC registration is valid? | Use the CAC verification portal to check your RC or BN number. |
| 21 | Can I change my business name later? | Yes, via an application for a name change on the CAC portal. |
| 22 | Who is the head of CAC in Nigeria? | The Registrar-General leads CAC—check their site for updates. |
| 23 | What are the benefits of registering with CAC? | Legal recognition, bank access, funding eligibility, and credibility for your business. |
Conclusion
Registering your business with CAC is not just a legal requirement—it’s a smart move for growth, credibility, and access to opportunities. Whether you’re a solo entrepreneur or building the next big thing, start with CAC and build from there. Post Source official resources from the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC)Discover more from STEVTEK
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