Do you need to register?
A sole trader called Mary Byrne trading as "Mary Byrne" doesn't need to. Trading as "Byrne Bakes" does. The same applies to a company: "Byrne Foods Limited" trading as "Byrne Bakes" must register that business name.
Which form?
- RBN1 — an individual (sole trader).
- RBN1A — a partnership.
- RBN1B — a company.
Registration is done with the CRO, ideally online. At the time of writing the online fee is around €20.
Important: a business name isn't protection
Registering a business name doesn't give you exclusive rights to it — it simply records who is trading under it. If brand protection matters, talk to your adviser about incorporating a company with that name and/or a trademark.
Frequently asked questions
How much does it cost to register a business name in Ireland?
Around €20 when filed online with the CRO at the time of writing.
Does registering a business name protect it?
No. It records who trades under the name but doesn't give exclusive rights. Incorporating a company with the name, or registering a trademark, gives stronger protection.