Your business is like your child, aside from taking care of it, you should also name it. Your business name will represent your company, and it is how your clients will remember you.
Aside from coming up with a name for your new business, you also need to register it with the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), if you’re a sole proprietor.
Business name registration is required in the Philippines. According to the Business Name Law (Republic Act 3883), it’s illegal for anyone to use any name for a business other than the owner’s real name without first registering the business name with the DTI.
In short, securing your business name will ensure the legal and exclusive right to use it within its validity period. No other business can register or use your business name in the barangay, city or municipality, region, or country, depending on your business location coverage.
However, note that business name registration with the DTI is only for sole proprietors and not a license to run a business. You’ll need to secure a business permit and other related documents for that purpose.
Here’s a guide to DTI business registration in the Philippines:
Who can apply?
How to choose your business name?
Here are the steps to register your business name online through the BNRS.
1. Check if your prospective business name is available. Go to the Business Name Search page of the BNRS website and type the keywords of your preferred trade name.
2. Proceed with your DTI business registration online once you’ve confirmed that your target business name is still available. Access the New Registration page of the BNRS site and read the Terms and Condition. When you’re done, click the I Agree button at the bottom of the page.
3. Fill out the online registration form. Fields marked with a red asterisk must not be left blank. Your tax identification number (TIN) must also be provided on the online form.
4. Pay the business name registration fee (see image below) within five calendar days from the online application date. You can pay at the DTI office or Negosyo Center indicated in your Transaction Reference Number (TRN) acknowledgment form. For convenience, make your online payment immediately during your DTI business registration via GCash or Paymaya. If you have a GCash or Paymaya account, just enter your mobile number in the Payment Details section.
5. Claim your Certificate of Business Name Registration at the nearest DTI office or download it for printing.
Takeaway
Your business name is only valid for five years, don’t forget to renew it with the DTI before it expires. You should also keep your business name document because it’s one of the essential documents you’ll need to register your business at the municipal office and the Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR).
Dabawenya Mommy 