Getting the words right on a metal business card

A metal business card is made to last, with the words cut or engraved into it. A wrong detail stays there for good.

A limited company's name

GOV.UK says a company must include its name on all company documents, publicity and letters.

Business letters, order forms and websites need more. Each must carry the company number, the registered office address and the part of the UK it is registered in. It must also make clear that the business is a limited company, usually through a full name ending in "Limited" or "Ltd". If a card doubles as an order form, those details belong on it too.

Directors and share capital

A business letter that names one of the company's directors, other than in the text or as the person signing, must name all of them. That rule is in regulation 26 of the 2015 Regulations.

A business letter, order form or website that shows the company's share capital must give the paid-up amount (regulation 25).

Sole traders

A sole trader can trade under their own name or choose a business name. GOV.UK says that name must not include "limited", "Ltd", "LLP" or "plc", and must not be offensive.

It also must not be too similar to another company's trademarked name, because you may have to change it if someone complains.

A sole trader who trades under a business name must show their own name and an address where documents about the business can be served. That information goes on business letters, written orders, invoices and receipts, and written demands for payment. In law, a business name is any name other than the sole trader's own surname, with or without a first name or initial (Companies Act 2006, sections 1200 to 1202).

A logo or brand name

The Intellectual Property Office's trade mark search lets you check whether a similar trade mark already exists in the UK.

GOV.UK says the owner of a registered trade mark can take legal action against anyone using the brand without permission, and can put the ® symbol next to it. A trade mark lasts 10 years, and you must renew it to keep it in force.

Useful links

• Running a limited company: signs, stationery and promotional material (GOV.UK)
• The Company, LLP and Business (Names and Trading Disclosures) Regulations 2015 (legislation.gov.uk)
• Become a sole trader: choose your business name (GOV.UK)
• Companies Act 2006, section 1202: disclosure required in business documents (legislation.gov.uk)
• Search for a trade mark (Intellectual Property Office, GOV.UK)
• Register a trade mark (GOV.UK)