We are often asked to explain the difference between ‘Limited’ and ‘Ltd’ at the end of a company name. There is no difference other than that one is a complete word, and the other is a shortened form. It’s entirely up to you whether to use Limited or Ltd. Below, we explain the rules around UK company names to help you decide which is best.
When registering a limited company , there are several company name rules and restrictions to bear in mind.
One of the first decisions you will have to make is whether to choose ‘Limited’ or ‘Ltd’ for the end of your company name. However, your choice will only affect how your company name is displayed on your incorporation documents.
During the life of your company, you can use whatever format you like. You can also interchange between them, displaying different formats on your website, letterheads, and business cards as you please.
LIMITED, LTD, Limited or Ltd are one and the same. You are free to use any version. It should be noted, however, that Companies House always registers and records names in capitals and never produces certificates of incorporation in lowercase.
If your company is registered in Wales and has a registered office situated in Wales (a “Welsh” company), you can instead use ‘Cyfyngedig’ or ‘Cyf’ at the end of your company name.
If you register a private company limited by guarantee , you can apply for exemption from the requirement to add ‘Limited’ or ‘Ltd’ (or ‘Cyfyngedig’ or ‘Cyf’) from your company name if your articles of association state that:
To apply for exemption during the company registration process, you must indicate this by checking the relevant box on the application form.