Last Updated on April 17, 2025 by Ayomide Adeyemi
Last Updated: February 20, 2025
Starting a business is profitable apart from giving you financial independence, it will also give you control of your time.
Do you have a business plan for your business? If NO, you need it regardless of any type of business you are running. You can create a solid and professional business plan by yourself with this simple understanding of How to Create a BUSINESS PLAN from Scratch For Your Business.
Have a business plan before you proceed with the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) registration.
The Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) is Nigeria’s official regulatory body responsible for business registration. Whether you are starting a small business, a limited liability company, or a non-profit organization, CAC registration is essential for legal recognition.
This article provides a complete guide on CAC registration, including the required documents, fees, and step-by-step procedures.
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What is CAC Registration?
CAC registration is an official way of registering a business entity with the Corporate Affairs Commission in Nigeria.
Are you considering whether or not you need it? CAC registration provides legal recognition, protects the business name, and allows businesses to operate lawfully in Nigeria. By now, you will agree that your company requires this to thrive.
Types of Business Structures Under CAC
Before registering your business, you must choose a suitable business structure that is appropriate for the business you are currently running or projecting to run.
The following entities are allowed under CAC Registration:
- Business Name Registration (Sole Proprietorship or Partnership)
- Private Limited Liability Company (LTD)
- Public Limited Company (PLC)
- Incorporated Trustees (NGOs, Associations, Religious Organizations)
Kindly note that each structure has different registration requirements and benefits. This implies that your business growth expectations, in the long run, will determine which you should go for.
Required Documents for CAC Registration
To successfully register your business with CAC, the required documents you are to provide depend on your business type. Check the required documents for cac registration your business falls to below:
1. Business Name Registration (Sole Proprietorship/Partnership)
If you are the type running a one-man business or what is generally referred to as Sole Proprietorship and/or partnership. You will need the documents below:
- Proposed business name (two options for availability check)
- Business owner’s full name, phone number, email, and residential address
- Valid means of identification (National ID, Voter’s Card, Driver’s License, or International Passport)
- Business address and nature of the business
2. Private Limited Liability Company (LTD)
If your business falls into this category, you will need to present the list of documents below:
- Proposed company name (two options)
- Full names, addresses, and valid ID of at least two directors
- Share capital structure and percentage ownership
- Memorandum and Articles of Association (prepared by a legal practitioner)
- Signature of all directors and shareholders
3. Incorporated Trustees (NGOs, Associations, Religious Organizations)
For those running Incorporated Trustees (NGOs, Associations, Religious Organizations), you need all the documents below for CAC Registration.
- Name and objectives of the organization
- Constitution of the organization
- Trustee details (names, addresses, ID copies)
- Minutes of the meeting appointing trustees
- Public notice of intention to register the organization (published in newspapers)
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CAC Registration Fees
The cost of CAC registration depends on the type of business structure you want to register. Here’s an estimate of the fees as of 2024:
- Business Name Registration – ₦10,000 to ₦15,000
- Private Limited Company (LTD) – ₦25,000 to ₦50,000 (depending on share capital)
- Public Limited Company (PLC) – ₦50,000 and above
- Incorporated Trustees (NGO, Church, Association) – ₦20,000 to ₦50,000
- Name Reservation Fee – ₦500
- Certified True Copy of Documents – ₦5,000
Note: These fees may vary based on CAC policies and legal service charges.
What are the procedures for CAC registration?
Follow these steps to complete your CAC registration successfully:
Step 1: Name Reservation
- Visit the CAC website ([www.cac.gov.ng](https://www.cac.gov.ng)) and check for name availability.
- Submit your preferred business name for reservation.
- Pay the name reservation fee (₦500).
- If the name is approved, you will receive a name availability approval within 24–48 hours.
Step 2: Business Registration Application
- Log in to the CAC portal and complete the registration form.
- Provide all required details, including business address, owner’s details, and nature of business.
- Upload the necessary documents.
Step 3: Payment of Registration Fees
Pay the applicable registration fees online via the CAC portal or through designated banks.
Step 4: Document Verification and Approval
The CAC will review your submitted documents.
If there are no errors, the business will be approved, and you will receive your Certificate of Incorporation.
Step 5: Download Your CAC Certificate
Once approved, log in to your CAC account and download your CAC registration certificate.
Benefits of CAC Registration
The following are the essential benefits and reasons why you should register your business with the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC).
- Legal Recognition: Your business becomes a legally recognized entity.
- Business Name Protection: No other business can use your registered name.
- Access to Business Loans: Registered businesses can apply for bank loans and grants.
- Corporate Bank Account: Registration allows you to open a business bank account.
- Trust and Credibility: Customers and investors trust registered businesses more.
Common Challenges in CAC Registration and How to Solve Them
Now, that we have explored how to register and all the required needed with the benefits you will gain. We would like to also guide you through some of the common you might face during the process of submitting your business for registration with the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC).
Some of the Common Challenges in CAC Registration and How to Solve Them are listed below:
- Name Rejection: Choose unique names and avoid generic or restricted words.
- Delayed Approval: Ensure all documents are correctly uploaded to prevent rejection.
- Technical Issues on CAC Portal: Try again during off-peak hours or seek professional assistance.
Register your business hassle-free with Psalmist Timmy Agency! We handle your CAC registration quickly and professionally, so you can focus on growing your business. Additional bonuses you will get include:✅ Free Business Consultation Service✅ A month of Free Advertisement for your Business✅ 30% off for Building a Website for your Business📜💼 Contact us today for a smooth and stress-free registration process!
Wrapping
CAC registration is a crucial step for any entrepreneur looking to establish a legitimate business in Nigeria.
By following the guidelines outlined in this article, you can register your business seamlessly. Ensure you have all the required documents and pay the necessary fees to complete the process successfully.
For more updates on business registration, visit the CAC official website or seek professional assistance at Psalmist Timmy Agency to avoid unnecessary delays.
Timileyin Awogbade
Timileyin Awogbade is a journalist, seasoned copywriter, expert editor, and experienced content creator at Dailylight Channel with over 5 years of experience in writing, content strategy, and SEO.