1. Why should you reserve a name
Your business name is a key part of your brand identity. Reserving it with the CIPC protects it from being used by someone else while you establish your company. In South Africa, the Name Reservation process lets you hold a specific name for six months. If you’re not ready to launch, you can renew the reservation after six months or register the company before it expires. Without name reservation, the CIPC will register your company under a numerical enterprise number (e.g., 2025/123456/07), and you will need to apply for a name change later.
2. What is the CoR 9.4 name reservation certificate?
When your proposed name is approved, the CIPC issues a Confirmation of Name Reservation certificate (CoR 9.4). This document:
- Confirms your proposed name has been checked and approved.
- Gives you the exclusive right to register a company under that name for six months.
- Prevents others from registering the same or a confusingly similar name during that period.
You can download the certificate from your CIPC profile or have it sent to you by email. If your application is rejected, you will receive a CoR 9.5 notice explaining the reason for the rejection.
3 Step‑by‑step: How to reserve a business name
Step 1: Create a CIPC customer account and fund it.
To use the CIPC’s electronic services, you must register as a customer. Deposit funds into your CIPC customer account to cover the name reservation fee and any other filings. Each name reservation costs R50 when filed electronically or R75 if lodged manually.
Step 2: Brainstorm suitable names.
CIPC allows you to submit up to four name options in order of preference. Choose distinctive, original names that aren’t identical to existing businesses. The “Register Your Business” guide suggests selecting names that catch the public’s attention, avoiding vulgar language and, where possible, describing what the business does.
- You cannot use names that are already registered or that infringe on trademarks.
- Generic names such as “South Africa Trading” or names that imply government affiliation are likely to be rejected.
- Because you cannot reserve a name that another business has registered, submit a few alternatives at the same time.
Step 3: Lodge the name reservation application.
Log in to your CIPC eServices or BizPortal account and select “Name Reservation.” Enter between one and four proposed names in order of preference and pay the filing fee. Suppose you lodge manually (for example, because you’re reserving a name similar to an existing company within the same group). In that case, you must complete CoR 9.1, attach certified copies of your ID, and provide a letter of consent from the existing company. Manual submissions cost R75 and must be emailed or delivered to CIPC. Electronic submissions cost R50 and require only the CoR 9.1 form.
Step 4: Wait for approval.
The CIPC typically processes name reservations within one to two working days, although heavy workloads may extend this to two to three working days. Delays beyond this range can occur during busy periods; therefore, plan for up to a few weeks if a backlog develops.
Step 5: Receive your result.
CIPC will email you a CoR 9.4 if at least one of your names is approved or a CoR 9.5 if they are all rejected. If your application is denied, you must submit a new reservation with fresh name options. If approved, the name will be reserved for a period of six months. Keep the CoR 9.4 certificate safe – you need it to register your company.
Step 6: Register your company or extend the reservation.
Once you have a valid name reservation certificate, you can proceed with registering your company. During registration, select the option “Use a name that has already been approved” and enter your reservation number. If you are not ready to register, you may extend the reservation once for a further 60 business days before it expires.
4 Tips to Avoid Name-Reservation Rejections
- Check availability before applying. Use the CIPC’s free name search or third‑party tools to check whether your desired name or something similar already exists.
- Be original and descriptive. A unique name that conveys your product or service is more likely to be accepted.
- Avoid prohibited words. Names implying government affiliation (for example, “Republic of South Africa” or “State Bank”) require ministerial consent and will likely be rejected. Similarly, names that are offensive or contrary to public policy will not be approved.
- Plan backups. Because each name costs R50 and you can submit up to four names, prepare several alternatives to improve your chances.
- Don’t miss the six‑month window. After six months, your reservation lapses, and the name becomes available to others. Apply for an extension or register the company before then.
5 Frequently Asked Questions
Can I register a company without reserving a name in advance?
Yes. During company registration, you can choose to register without a name; the CIPC will assign a numerical enterprise number. You can later apply for a name change once you have a suitable name.
What is the cost to reserve a name?
The CIPC fee is R50 per application when lodged electronically and R75 if lodged manually. Service providers may charge additional service fees (for example, R199 for a complete package).
How long does approval take?
The standard turnaround is one to three working days, but this may be extended during busy periods. Budget extra time if you plan to start operating quickly.
What happens if all my proposed names are rejected?
The CIPC will issue a CoR 9.5 notice. You will have to lodge a new name reservation application with different names and pay the fee again.
6 Conclusion
Reserving your business name with the CIPC is a crucial step toward protecting your brand and laying the groundwork for company registration. By proposing up to four distinctive names, paying the modest fee and avoiding common pitfalls such as generic or inappropriate words, you significantly improve your chances of securing the name you want. Once approved, your CoR 9.4 certificate will hold your name for six months, giving you time to complete registration, attract co-founders, or prepare for launch. If you’re ready to start your business journey, now is the time to reserve your name.