How to Change Your Company Name at CIPC in 2026 (Step-by-Step Guide)

Changing your company name with the Companies and Intellectual Property Commission (CIPC) is a common process for South African businesses rebranding, restructuring, or aligning their name with a new business direction. In 2026, CIPC continues to manage company name changes electronically, but strict rules and timelines still apply.

This guide explains exactly how to change your company name at CIPC, the forms required, costs, timelines, and what to do after approval.

What does it mean to change a company name at CIPC?

A company name change updates your legal registered name on the CIPC database. This is different from using a trading name. Once approved, the new name replaces the old name on all official records, including your company registration certificate.

Requirements before changing your company name

Before submitting a name change at CIPC, ensure you have:

A registered CIPC customer code and password
Your company registration number
A name reservation certificate (CoR9.4), unless using your registration number as the name
A signed resolution approving the name change
Funds available in your CIPC account for filing fees

Step 1: Reserve a new company name (CoR9.1)

Most company name changes require name reservation approval.

How to reserve a name:

Log in to CIPC eServices
Select Name Reservation (CoR9.1)
Submit up to four proposed names
Pay the prescribed reservation fee
Wait for approval (usually 1–3 working days)

Once approved, CIPC issues a CoR9.4 Name Reservation Certificate, valid for 6 months.

💡 Tip: Avoid restricted or confusing names to prevent rejection.

Step 2: Submit the company name change (CoR15.2)

After name reservation approval, submit the formal name change.

How to change the company name:

Log in to CIPC eServices
Select Company Name Change (CoR15.2)
Enter the approved reservation number
Upload the signed resolution
Confirm details and submit

Step 3: Pay the CIPC name change fee

Standard company name change fee applies
Fees must be prepaid into your CIPC customer account
Applications will not be processed without sufficient funds

Step 4: Receive your updated registration certificate

Once approved, CIPC will issue:

An updated Company Registration Certificate
Confirmation of the new legal company name

Processing time typically ranges from 5–10 working days, depending on CIPC volumes.

What to do after your company name is changed

Changing your name at CIPC is only the first step. You must also update:

SARS (income tax, VAT, PAYE)
Business bank accounts
Contracts and invoices
CIPC annual returns
Company letterheads, website, and branding
Licences, permits, and registrations
UIF, COIDA, and other regulatory bodies

Failure to update these may cause compliance issues.

Common mistakes to avoid

Submitting a name change without name reservation approval
Using a name that conflicts with trademarks
Uploading unsigned or incorrect resolutions
Forgetting to update SARS and banking details
Allowing the name reservation to expire

Can you change a company name without a name reservation?

Yes — only if you change the company name to your registration number, for example:
2020/123456/07 (Pty) Ltd

All other name changes require a CoR9.4 name reservation certificate.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

How long does it take to change a company name at CIPC?

Usually 5–10 working days after submission, depending on CIPC processing times.

Can I change my company name online?

Yes. All company name changes are submitted via CIPC eServices.

Does a company name change affect contracts?

No, the company remains the same legal entity. However, contracts should be updated to reflect the new name.

Can I use my trading name instead?

A trading name does not replace your registered company name and does not require CIPC approval.

Is the old company name still valid?

No. Once approved, the new name becomes the only legal company name.