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Know the Real Costs Before You Register with the CAC
Understanding the cost of business name registration in Nigeria is critical for every entrepreneur who wants to start on the right foot. While the process is streamlined through the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC), cost expectations can vary depending on the structure of your business, location, and whether or not you use an agent.
In this detailed guide, we’ll break down the official CAC fees, hidden costs, and smart budgeting tips for your business name registration in Nigeria.
Why Cost Transparency Matters for New Businesses
Starting a business with financial clarity gives you a massive edge. Many aspiring entrepreneurs fail to complete their CAC registration due to unexpected fees or lack of preparation.
Understanding the true cost structure allows you to:
- Set aside the right budget
- Avoid scams or overpriced agents
- Get registered without delay or compromise
Let’s go straight into the real numbers.
Official CAC Fees (as of 2025)
The Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) maintains fixed fees for different stages of business name registration in Nigeria.
1. Name Reservation Fee
💰 ₦500
This fee is paid to submit your proposed business name for availability check. You can submit two names per reservation.
2. Business Name Registration Fee
💰 ₦10,000
This is the core fee for registering a business name. It includes digital certificate issuance and listing in the CAC register.
Note: This fee applies to sole proprietorships and partnerships under the business name category—not limited liability companies.
Additional Costs to Consider
The registration fee is not the only expense you may encounter. Below are additional costs that may arise during your business name registration in Nigeria:
3. Document Scanning & Upload
💰 ₦1,000 – ₦2,000
If you don’t own a scanner or need help digitizing your ID, utility bill, or passport photo, you’ll likely pay for this service at a cybercafé or business center.
4. Internet or Cybercafé Access
💰 ₦500 – ₦1,000 per session
The CAC portal requires stable internet and document upload capability. You’ll either need your own Wi-Fi or visit a café for the registration process.
5. Optional Agent or Consultant Fee
💰 ₦5,000 – ₦20,000
Some entrepreneurs hire CAC-accredited agents to handle the process end-to-end. Fees vary based on the agent’s expertise, your business location, and urgency.
⚠️ Important: Always verify that the agent is CAC-certified and that you retain access to all login credentials and the email used for registration.
Total Estimated Budget (If DIY)
If you’re handling your business name registration in Nigeria yourself, here’s a basic breakdown:
| Item | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| Name reservation | ₦500 |
| CAC registration fee | ₦10,000 |
| Document scanning | ₦1,500 |
| Internet/Cybercafé access | ₦1,000 |
| Total (DIY approach) | ₦13,000 |
Total Estimated Budget (With Agent)
If you hire an agent:
| Item | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| Name reservation | ₦500 |
| CAC registration fee | ₦10,000 |
| Agent or consultant | ₦10,000 |
| Misc (ID prep, internet) | ₦1,000 |
| Total (With agent) | ₦21,500 |
Are There Ongoing Costs After Registration?
Unlike limited liability companies that require annual returns and tax filings, registered business names have minimal ongoing costs. However, you may still pay for:
- Business stamp: ₦2,000 – ₦5,000
- TIN (Tax Identification Number): Free through FIRS
- Digital signature: ₦3,000+ if applying online
These are optional or occur after you’ve completed the business name registration in Nigeria.
Hidden Costs to Watch Out For
Here’s what to avoid during registration:
- Overpriced agents charging ₦30,000+ for basic registration
- Cybercafés adding CAC “processing fees”
- Fake documents sold at extra costs (utility bills, fake IDs)
These practices not only increase your costs—they can also get your registration rejected or blacklisted.
Money-Saving Tips for Registration
If you want to minimize your expenses:
✅ Use your own device and internet
✅ Scan documents via mobile apps like CamScanner
✅ Complete the process yourself via the CAC Portal
✅ Only hire agents when you truly need support
With preparation, your business name registration in Nigeria can be smooth and affordable.
Final Thoughts: Budget Smart, Register Fast
Registering your business shouldn’t be expensive or confusing. With a clear understanding of CAC fees and the surrounding costs, you can plan ahead and launch your business legally and confidently.
Whether you go the DIY route or hire a consultant, make sure your budget aligns with real requirements—not inflated prices. The reward? A registered business ready to operate, scale, and succeed.
