Nothing stalls a company registration like a rejected name. Before you spend R50 on a CIPC name reservation, run your ideas through the checker below. It instantly flags the rule problems that cause most rejections.
Honest note: only CIPC’s live database can confirm a name is truly available. This tool screens the rules; the reservation confirms availability.
What this checker catches
- Restricted words that imply government or official status
- Missing or wrong endings – private companies end in “(Pty) Ltd”
- Generic wording that is almost certainly taken
- Length problems that cause practical issues later
Screen first, submit once. Photo: Travis Wise, CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons.
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Frequently asked questions
Is this company name checker free?
Yes, completely free. Enter your proposed name and the checker instantly screens it against the CIPC naming rules – no sign-up, no cost.
Does the checker search the official CIPC database?
No – only CIPC can confirm live availability. This tool screens your name against the rules that get names rejected (length, restricted words, endings and more) so you submit stronger options. The final availability check happens in the official CIPC reservation.
What names does CIPC reject?
CIPC rejects names that are identical or confusingly similar to existing companies or trademarks, names that are offensive or misleading, names suggesting government links, and names missing the required ending such as (Pty) Ltd.
How many names should I prepare?
Prepare four. CIPC lets you submit up to four names per reservation application for R50, tested in your order of preference – so screen all four with this checker first.
Can Admin Boss reserve the name for me?
Yes. When you register your company with Admin Boss for R275, name checking and reservation are included free – we submit up to four screened names and handle any rejection.
Keep reading
Fees, timelines and approval tips for CIPC name reservation.
Generate distinctive South African business name ideas.
Another free tool – find your exact CIPC filing window.
Check the rest of your company’s compliance in minutes.
Last reviewed: August 2026. Sources: Companies and Intellectual Property Commission (CIPC). This tool gives guidance, not official availability confirmation.