A lot of people have been asking us in our inbox: “Can I do my CAC registration myself?” It’s a common query among aspiring entrepreneurs in Nigeria who are eager to formalize their business ventures but may feel uncertain about how to go about with the registration process.
The Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) is a government agency in charge of regulating businesses in Nigeria, and understanding the intricacies of CAC registration is essential for anyone looking to establish a legitimate presence in the market.
Registering a business name in Nigeria is an important step to take towards formalizing your enterprise and gaining legal recognition.
Many entrepreneurs wonder whether they can do the registration process themselves or if they need to enlist the help of professionals. Let’s find out if you can indeed handle your CAC registration independently.
CAC Registration Process
The registration process for a business name involves several steps, but it’s not as daunting as it may seem. Here’s a simplified breakdown:
Step #1: Check Name Availability
The first step is to ensure that your desired business name is available for registration. This can be done by visiting the CAC website and conducting a search to see if the name is already in use.
Step #2: Complete Pre-Registration Form (CAC-BNo1)
Once you’ve confirmed the availability of your chosen name, you’ll need to complete the pre-registration form, known as CAC-BNo1. This form collects essential details about your business, such as the name, nature of business, and address.
Step #3: Upload Relevant Documents
Along with the pre-registration form, you’ll need to upload certain documents depending on the type of business you’re registering. These documents typically include valid identification and proof of address for the proprietor(s) or partners.
Step #4: Pay Filing Fee
There is a filing fee associated with the registration process, which varies depending on the type of business and the services requested. The fee can be paid online through the CAC portal.
Step #5: Complete Registration on CRP
With the advent of the Company Registration Portal (CRP), the registration process has become more streamlined and accessible. Once you’ve submitted the necessary forms and documents and paid the filing fee, your registration will be processed electronically.
Step #6: Receive Certificate of Registration
Upon successful registration, you will receive an electronic Certificate of Registration, which serves as proof that your business is legally recognized by the CAC. You’ll also receive a Certified Extract of registration information, summarizing key details about your business.
Can You Do It Yourself?
The answer is yes! According to the guidelines provided by the CAC, individual proprietors can register business names without the assistance of legal practitioners, chartered accountants, or chartered secretaries. This means that as long as you have access to the internet and the necessary documentation, you can complete the registration process on your own.
Can you do CAC registration with your phone?
Yes, you can complete the registration process for your business name using your phone. The Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) has made it possible to register a business name online through their Company Registration Portal (CRP), which is accessible via mobile devices.
With a stable internet connection and the necessary documentation, you can carry out the registration steps conveniently from your phone, making it easier for you to formalize your business on the go.
How long does CAC registration take?
To know about the amount required for the registration of your business, you can read this post: Cost of Business Registration in Nigeria By CAC.
Conclusion
Registering your business name with the CAC is a fundamental step towards establishing your presence in the Nigerian business landscape. While the process may seem intimidating at first, it is entirely possible to do it yourself, thanks to the user-friendly CRP platform and the clear guidelines provided by the CAC. By following the steps outlined above and leveraging online resources, you can navigate the registration process with confidence and set your business on the path to success.