Changing your company name in Kenya is an essential process that can reflect your evolving business identity, new branding strategy, or shift in focus. Fortunately, this procedure has been simplified through the eCitizen platform, making it accessible for all business owners.
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This comprehensive guide walks you through each step involved in changing your company name in Kenya, ensuring that you have all the necessary information to complete the process smoothly.
Understanding the Importance of a Company Name Change
Before diving into the technical steps, it’s crucial to understand why you might want to change your company name:
- Rebranding: A name change can help modernize your brand and appeal to a new audience.
- Business Expansion: If your company has diversified its products or services, a new name may better represent your current offerings.
- Legal Considerations: Sometimes, a name change may be required due to legal or regulatory issues.
Regardless of your reason, changing your company name can reinvigorate your brand and help you connect with customers in new ways.
How to Change Company Name in Kenya
1. Log into eCitizen
Start by visiting the eCitizen website. If you have an account, simply log in with your credentials. If you don’t have an account, you’ll need to register first. Make sure you have all your company details handy for the registration process.
2. Navigate to ‘My Businesses’
Once logged in, your dashboard will display various options. Look for the ‘My Businesses’ section, which provides a comprehensive list of all the businesses registered under your account.
3. Select Your Company
Under the ‘My Businesses’ section, click on VIEW next to the business name you wish to change. This action takes you to the management interface for that specific business entity.
4. Maintain the Company
In the management interface, you will see several options for managing your business. Click on Maintain a Company. This section allows you to handle various administrative tasks, including the name change.
5. Select Change of Name
From the options available, choose Change of Name. This initiates the official process to request a name change for your company.
6. Enter Your Preferred Name
You will be required to input your new preferred name(s). It’s advisable to provide multiple options in order of priority, as the Registrar may not approve your first choice. Ensure that your new name adheres to the guidelines set forth by the Registrar of Companies, including:
- Uniqueness: The name should not be similar to any existing registered names.
- Relevance: It should reflect your business activities.
- Compliance: Ensure the name doesn’t violate any trademark or copyright laws.
7. Pay the Required Fee
After entering your preferred names, you will be prompted to pay a fee of Kshs. 4,050. The payment can be conveniently made online through the eCitizen platform using various methods, including mobile money, bank transfer, or credit card.
8. Submit Your Application
Once the payment is processed, submit your application. This submission kicks off the review process, where the Registrar of Companies will evaluate your application for compliance with legal requirements.
9. Await Name Review
After submission, you will receive an SMS notification about the status of your application. This step is crucial as it indicates whether your name change request is accepted or if corrections are needed.
10. Upload CR15 and CR19 Forms
If the application is approved, you will be instructed to upload the CR15 and CR19 forms. These forms are automatically generated by the system as part of the process. Here’s how to handle them:
- Edit Application: Click on Edit Application to provide additional information regarding the resolution passed by your company’s directors.
- Select Directors: You need to select one or more directors to authenticate that the resolution was passed in accordance with company law.
11. Download and Upload the Forms
Once you’ve provided the required information, the system will generate the CR15 and CR19 forms. Follow these steps to complete this part:
- Download the Forms: Save the generated CR15 and CR19 forms to your device.
- Sign the Forms: Ensure that all designated company directors sign the forms.
- Scan and Upload: After signing, scan the documents and upload them back to the system for review.
12. Submit the Application for Final Review
After uploading the necessary documents, submit the application for a final review. Ensure that all information is accurate and that you have included all required documents. Any errors could result in delays or rejection of your application.
13. Download Your New Name Certificate
Once your application has been reviewed and approved, the certificate confirming the change of name will be made available for download in your eCitizen account. This certificate is essential for updating all your business records and should be kept securely.
14. Update Your Business Documents
With your new name certificate in hand, it’s time to update all relevant business documents, including:
- Tax Registration: Update your name with the Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA).
- Bank Accounts: Notify your bank of the name change to update your business bank accounts.
- Business Licenses: Ensure all local and industry-specific licenses reflect your new name.
- Marketing Materials: Update your branding, including signage, business cards, and your website.
Conclusion
Changing your company name in Kenya may seem daunting, but the eCitizen platform simplifies the process significantly. By following these detailed steps, you can ensure that your name change is processed smoothly and efficiently.
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Remember to adhere to all legal requirements and communicate any changes to stakeholders promptly. A new name can breathe fresh life into your business, so embrace the change and move forward with confidence!
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