How to verify if a Business or Company is registered on CAC

Introduction

Ensuring that your business is registered with the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) in Nigeria is crucial for legal compliance and operational credibility. This guide provides a step-by-step process on how to verify if a business or company is registered with the CAC.

How to verify if a Business or Company is registered on CAC

1. Visit the CAC Website

The first step in verifying your company’s registration status is to visit the official website of the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC): www.cac.gov.ng.

2. Locate the Public Search

Once on the CAC website, find the section labeled “Public Search.” This section allows you to search the CAC database for registered companies.

3. Enter Company Details

In the search box provided, enter your company’s name or registration number exactly as it appears in the CAC records. Accurate information is the key to getting accurate results.

4. Initiate the Search

Click the search button to submit your query. The website will then retrieve and display information related to your search criteria.

5. View the Results

Examine the search results to find your company’s name. If your business or company appears in the results, it is registered with the CAC.

The search results will also show other essential details such as the registration number, date of registration, registered address and the active or inactive status of the business.

Note: The results are shown under different tabs: BUSINESS NAME, COMPANY, INCORPORATED TRUSTEES, LIMITED PARTNERSHIP, and LIMITED LIABILITY PARTNERSHIP. Click on the right category that matches your business to see the relevant result.

6. Access Paid Services for Detailed Information

For more detailed information about the searched business or company, such as directors’ or proprietors’ bios and contact details, you can request a paid search. Here’s how:

1. Click the View Paid Search Button: On the search results page, click the “View Paid Search” button.
2. Enter Your Details: You will be redirected to a page where you need to input your name and email address.
3. Make Payment: After entering your details, you will proceed to the Remita platform to make the necessary payment.
4. Receive Information: Once the payment is confirmed, the requested information will be sent to the email address you provided.

This process ensures you get comprehensive and accurate details about the business or company in question.

Benefits of Verifying Registration

1. Legal Compliance

Verifying registration ensures that your business operates within the legal framework set by the Nigerian government.

This compliance is necessary to avoid legal issues and penalties. Eg POS operators may want to be sure their businesses has been registered in line with the July 7 government directives

2. Annual Returns Status

Verifying your business on the CAC database also reveals the active or inactive status of the business. Businesses or companies showing a green “active” status are compliant and up-to-date with their annual returns obligations. However, those displaying a red “inactive” status need to pay their annual returns to regain active status.

3. Credibility

A registered business enhances its credibility with customers, partners, and investors. It shows that your company is legitimate and trustworthy.

4. Access to Opportunities

Many business opportunities, such as government loans and contracts, require proof of registration. Verifying your company’s status ensures you doesn’t miss out on these opportunities.

 

Conclusion

Verifying your company’s registration with the CAC is a straightforward process that provides peace of mind and enhances your business’s legitimacy. Regularly check your status and keep your registration details up to date to maintain compliance and credibility.

Frequently Asked Questions on How to verify if a Business or Company is registered on CAC

1. How often should I verify my company’s registration status with the CAC?

Regularly verifying your registration status is recommended, especially if you are applying for contracts or other opportunities that require proof of registration.

2. What if my company does not appear in the search results?

If your company does not appear in the search results, it is not registered. However, be sure you clicked on the right tab category before drawing conclusion.

3. Can I verify the registration status of other businesses?

Yes, the public search tool on the CAC website allows you to verify the registration status of any business in Nigeria.

4. What should I do if my business status shows inactive?

If your business status shows inactive, you need to pay the due annual returns to regain active status.

5. What information do I need to perform a CAC search?

You need the company’s name or registration number as it appears in the CAC records.

6. Is there a fee for accessing detailed information about a company’s registration?

Yes, there is a fee for accessing further detailed information such as directors’ or proprietors’ bios and contact details. You can obtain such only through a paid search

7. How long does it take to verify a company’s registration status?

The verification process is quick, often taking just a few minutes to retrieve the necessary information from the CAC database.