Companies House UK Login & Register 2026: Company Search, Lookup & Filing Guide
Companies House Search 2026 is the official online service for finding, verifying, and managing company information in the United Kingdom. Whether you’re an entrepreneur registering a new business, a director submitting statutory filings, an accountant managing multiple companies, or an individual checking the details of a registered business, this platform provides quick access to essential corporate records and online filing services. From company lookups and director information to filing history, annual accounts, and confirmation statements, everything can be accessed through the official UK company register.
In 2026, Companies House Search 2026 continues to be the most trusted resource for searching millions of registered UK businesses and maintaining compliance with the Companies Act. Users can log in to their Companies House account, incorporate a new company, file important documents online, update company information, search by company name or registration number, and download public records—all from one secure portal. The service is designed to simplify company administration while improving transparency for businesses, investors, and the general public.Visit For More Info Click Here
What Is Companies House?
Companies is the United Kingdom’s official registrar responsible for maintaining records of incorporated businesses. Every limited company operating in England, Wales, Scotland, or Northern Ireland must register with Companies and provide key statutory information throughout its lifetime.
The organisation keeps an up-to-date public register containing company details, legal filings, director information, confirmation statements, and financial accounts. Much of this information is freely available online, making it easy for individuals and businesses to verify company information before making important decisions.
Although Companies House works alongside HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC), the two organisations have different responsibilities. companies manages company registration and statutory records, while HMRC oversees taxation and tax compliance.
What You Can Do Using Companies House?
The companies house beta online service provides a wide range of tools for both business owners and the public. You can use it to:
This online platform serves as the primary gateway for managing legal company records and ensuring businesses remain compliant with UK corporate regulations.
How to Register a Company with Companies House
Setting up a limited company through UK cccccc is a straightforward online process. If all the required information is accurate, most applications are approved within one working day. Before you begin, ensure you have your company details, director information, and payment method ready to avoid delays.
Step 1: Select a Unique Company Name
Choosing the right company name is the first and one of the most important steps. Your proposed name must comply with UK Companies Register naming rules.
Your company name should:
Step 2: Gather Your Company Details
Having all the required information prepared in advance makes the incorporation process much quicker.
You’ll typically need:
Important: Double-check that all names, addresses, and company information are accurate before proceeding, as incorrect details can delay approval.
Step 3: Create Your UK Companies Register Account
To register your company online, you’ll first need to create a government account through the UK Companies Register incorporation service.
During registration, you’ll be asked to provide:
Once your account is created, verify your email address to activate access and continue with your company registration.
Step 4: Complete the Online Incorporation Application
After signing in, you’ll be guided through the online application form. Carefully complete each section with accurate information.
Company Information
Enter your company’s basic details, including:
Director Details
Provide information for each company director, including:
Shareholder Information
You’ll also need to specify ownership details such as:
Select Your SIC Code
Choose the Standard Industrial Classification (SIC) code that best describes your company’s main business activity. Selecting the correct SIC code ensures your business is classified accurately on the public register.
Step 5: Review Your Application Carefully
Before submitting your incorporation request, take a few minutes to review every section.
Confirm that the following information is correct:
Even small mistakes can lead to processing delays or require additional corrections after incorporation.
Step 6: Pay the Company Registration Fee
Once you’ve reviewed your application, you’ll be prompted to pay the incorporation fee securely online.
Common payment methods include:
Your application will only be processed after payment has been successfully completed.
Step 7: Submit Your Application
After payment, you’re ready to complete the registration process.
The final steps include:
If all information is correct, most online company registrations are approved within one working day. Once incorporated, you’ll receive your Certificate of Incorporation, confirming that your company has been officially registered and is legally recognised in the United Kingdom.
Company Registration Checklist
Before submitting your incorporation application, make sure you’ve completed each of the essential steps below. This checklist can help you avoid common mistakes and improve the chances of your application being approved without delays.
| Registration Task | Status |
|---|---|
| Company name availability checked | ✅ |
| Director information added | ✅ |
| Registered office address entered | ✅ |
| Shareholder details completed | ✅ |
| Appropriate SIC code selected | ✅ |
| Registration fee paid | ✅ |
| Application submitted successfully | ✅ |
Quick Tip: Review your application one final time before submission. Small errors in names, addresses, or share information can delay the incorporation process.
Who Can Benefit from Companies House?
Whether you’re launching a business or researching an existing company, Companies offers services for a wide range of users. If your goal is to register, manage, or verify a UK company, this platform provides the official tools and records you need.
| User Type | How Companies Helps |
|---|---|
| Business Owners | Register, manage, and maintain company records |
| Entrepreneurs | Form a new UK limited company online |
| Company Directors | Submit statutory filings and keep the company compliant |
| Accountants & Bookkeepers | File accounts, confirmation statements, and other documents for clients |
| Overseas Entrepreneurs | Set up and manage a UK-registered company |
| Investors & Lenders | Verify company status, directors, and filing history before making decisions |
| Members of the Public | Search UK companies and access publicly available records |
What You’ll Need Before Getting Started
Having the required information ready will make the registration or filing process much smoother. Before accessing Companies Search or creating your company, prepare the following details.
| Required Information | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Valid Email Address | Create and manage your Companies account |
| Proposed Company Name | Register a new company and check name availability |
| Registered Office Address | Official address for company correspondence |
| Director Information | Complete the company incorporation process |
| Shareholder Details | Define company ownership during registration |
| SIC (Standard Industrial Classification) Code | Describe the company’s primary business activity |
| Debit or Credit Card | Pay the company registration fee online |
Tip: Double-check that your company name, registered office address, and director details are accurate before submitting your application. Correct information helps avoid delays or rejected filings and ensures your company is successfully incorporated.
Companies House Login Guide
After your company has been registered, you’ll use your Companies login to manage your business online. Signing in gives you access to a range of digital services, allowing you to submit statutory filings, update company information, and stay compliant with UK company law.
Step 1: Open the Online Service
Visit the official companies login online services portal and select the Sign In option.
Step 2: Enter Your Login Details
Provide the credentials you used when creating your account:
Ensure your email address is entered correctly to avoid login errors.
Step 3: Complete Security Verification
If additional security checks are required, follow the on-screen instructions to verify your identity before continuing.
Step 4: Access Your Dashboard
Once you’ve successfully signed in, you’ll be taken to your companies login dashboard, where you can:
How to Reset Your Companies House Password
If you’ve forgotten your password or can’t access your account, you can quickly reset your login credentials.
Step 1: Select “Forgot Password”
On the sign-in page, click the Forgot password link.
Step 2: Enter Your Registered Email Address
Provide the email address associated with your Companies account.
Step 3: Check Your Email
You’ll receive a password reset email containing a secure verification link. If it doesn’t appear within a few minutes, check your spam or junk folder.
Step 4: Create a New Password
Follow the link and choose a new password that is strong, unique, and secure.
Step 5: Sign In Again
Return to the login page and use your updated password to access your Company Records Office account.
Security Tip: Use a unique password that isn’t shared with other online accounts, and update it periodically to help protect your Companies account from unauthorised access.
How to Search for a Company on House
Finding a registered UK company only takes a few simple steps.
Step 1: Open the Companies Search Tool
Go to the official Company Records Office search page to access the public company register.
Step 2: Enter Your Search Details
Type one of the following into the search box:
For the most accurate results, enter the full company name or the exact registration number.
Step 3: Start the Search
Click the Search button to display a list of matching companies.
Step 4: Select the Correct Company
Choose the relevant company from the search results to open its public profile. From there, you can view information such as:
Expert Tip: If multiple companies have similar names, use the company registration number to identify the correct business and avoid selecting the wrong record.
Information Available on a Company Profile
When you search for a business using Company Records Office Search, you’ll be able to access a detailed company profile containing key public records. This information helps business owners, investors, suppliers, and the general public verify a company’s legal status and filing history before making important decisions.
A standard company profile may include the following information:
| Company Information | Available |
|---|---|
| Company registration number | ✔ |
| Current company status | ✔ |
| Registered office address | ✔ |
| Date of incorporation | ✔ |
| Directors and officers | ✔ |
| Filing history | ✔ |
| Annual accounts | ✔ |
| Confirmation statement | ✔ |
| Charges and mortgages | ✔ |
| People with Significant Control (PSC) | ✔ |
Quick Tip: Reviewing a company’s filing history can provide valuable insights into its compliance record, financial reporting, and recent changes.
Download Company Documents
One of the most useful features of Companies Search is the ability to download official company documents at no cost. Many statutory filings are available as PDF files, making it easy to review or keep copies for your records.
Common documents you can download include:
These documents are particularly useful for due diligence, legal verification, financial research, and business compliance.
Understanding Company Status
Every registered company is assigned a status that reflects its current legal position. Knowing what each status means can help you quickly determine whether a business is actively trading or undergoing significant changes.
| Company Status | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Active | The company is legally registered and operating normally. |
| Dissolved | The company has been removed from the register and no longer exists as a legal entity. |
| Liquidation | The company’s assets are being sold to repay creditors before closure. |
| Administration | An insolvency practitioner has been appointed to manage the company and attempt recovery. |
| Proposal to Strike Off | An application has been made to remove the company from the register, subject to any objections. |
Important: Before entering into contracts or making payments, always confirm that a company’s status is Active.
Company Directors
Every UK limited company must have at least one director. Directors are responsible for managing the company and ensuring that all statutory obligations are met. They play a vital role in maintaining accurate company records and ensuring compliance with Companies regulations.
Failure to meet these legal responsibilities may result in financial penalties or other enforcement action.
Key Responsibilities of a Company Director
Company directors are expected to carry out several important legal duties, including:
Important: Directors are personally responsible for ensuring that statutory filings are submitted accurately and within the required deadlines.
How to Appoint a New Director
If your company needs to appoint a new director, you can complete the process online through your Companies House account.
Step 1: Sign In
Log in to your Companies online account.
Step 2: Select Your Company
Choose the company you want to update.
Step 3: Open the Director Appointment Service
From your dashboard, select Appoint Director.
Step 4: Enter the Director’s Details
Provide the required information, including:
Ensure all information is accurate before proceeding.
Step 5: Review and Submit
Check the details carefully and submit the appointment. Once processed, the new director will appear on the company’s public record.
How to Resign or Remove a Director
If a director leaves the company House should be notified as soon as possible.
Follow these steps:
Keeping director information up to date helps maintain an accurate public register.
Updating Director Information
Companies allows directors to update certain personal and company-related details when necessary.
Information that can usually be updated includes:
Tip: Submit changes promptly to ensure your company’s public records remain accurate and compliant.
People with Significant Control (PSC)
A Person with Significant Control (PSC) is an individual or legal entity that has substantial influence or control over a company. UK companies are legally required to identify their PSCs, maintain an up-to-date PSC register, and report any changes to house.
Accurate PSC information promotes transparency and helps ensure that company ownership is publicly available.
Who Qualifies as a PSC?
A person or organisation is generally considered a PSC if they:
If your company’s PSC information changes, it should be updated with Companies House without unnecessary delay.
Companies House Authentication Code
The House authentication code is a unique 6-character alphanumeric code that acts as your company’s online filing password. It is used to verify that authorised individuals are submitting information on behalf of the company.
Because this code provides access to important filing services, it should always be kept confidential.
Security Reminder: Never share your authentication code with anyone unless they are authorised to submit Companies filings for your business.
When Do You Need the Authentication Code?
You’ll normally need your authentication code when carrying out online filings such as:
Keeping your authentication code secure and readily available will make it easier to complete statutory filings while protecting your company’s records from unauthorised access.
How to Request a Companies House Authentication Code
If you’ve misplaced your Companies authentication code or never received it, you can request a replacement through the online service. The replacement code is sent to your company’s registered office to help protect your business from unauthorised filings.
Follow these simple steps:
Step 1: Sign In
Log in to your Companies House online account.
Step 2: Select the Authentication Code Option
Choose Request an authentication code from the available online services.
Step 3: Verify Your Company Details
Confirm the company information to ensure the replacement code is issued for the correct business.
Step 4: Wait for Delivery
Companies will send a new authentication code by post to your company’s registered office address.
Step 5: Activate and Use the Code
Once the code arrives, keep it in a secure location and use it for future online filings.
Security Reminder: Your authentication code functions like a password for your company. Only authorised individuals should have access to it.
Best Practices for Secure Online Filing
Good record management and secure filing practices can help protect your company while reducing the risk of rejected submissions or missed deadlines.
Follow these recommendations:
Best Practice: Keep both digital and printed copies of important filing confirmations and company documents for future reference.
How to Apply for Company Dissolution
If your company is eligible for voluntary strike off, you can apply to have it removed from the UK Company Registry through the official online service. Before submitting your application, make sure all legal obligations have been met and your company qualifies for dissolution.
Step 1: Confirm Your Eligibility
Before starting the application, verify that your company satisfies the legal conditions for voluntary dissolution. This includes ensuring the business has stopped trading, has no outstanding debts, and is not involved in insolvency proceedings or ongoing legal disputes.
Important: Applying before meeting the eligibility requirements may delay your application or result in it being rejected.
Step 2: Notify Interested Parties
The law requires you to inform anyone who may be affected by the company’s closure before submitting a strike-off application.
This typically includes:
Providing notice helps ensure that anyone with a legitimate interest has an opportunity to raise any concerns before the company is dissolved.
Step 3: Submit the Strike-Off Application
Complete the voluntary strike-off application using the appropriate house service.
Before submitting, review all company information carefully to ensure it is complete and accurate.
Step 4: Pay the Required Fee
Once your application has been completed, pay the applicable Companies dissolution fee using an accepted payment method.
Your application will not be processed until payment has been successfully received.
Step 5: Wait for Companies House to Process Your Application
After submission, Companies reviews your application to confirm that all legal requirements have been met.
If the application is accepted:
Note: The publication of the notice in The Gazette is an important legal step in the company dissolution process.
What Happens After a Company Is Dissolved?
Once Companies completes the dissolution process, the company ceases to exist as a legal entity. From that point onward, it can no longer conduct business or enter into legal agreements.
The effects of dissolution generally include:
Important: Ensure all assets, liabilities, contracts, and tax obligations are dealt with before applying for voluntary strike off.
Can a Dissolved Company Be Restored?
In certain situations, a dissolved company may be restored to the UK Companies Register. Whether restoration is possible depends on the circumstances surrounding the dissolution and the applicable legal requirements.
A company may be eligible for restoration if:
Because company restoration can involve legal procedures and strict deadlines, many businesses choose to seek advice from a qualified solicitor or accountant before beginning the process.
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Companies House Fees for Common Services
Most House services either require a filing fee or are available free of charge. While many company records can be viewed online without payment, certain applications and official documents involve a fee.
Important: Companies fees may change over time. Always verify the latest charges on the official Companies website before submitting any application.
| Service | Fee Required |
|---|---|
| Company Incorporation | Yes |
| Confirmation Statement Filing | Yes |
| Company Dissolution (Strike Off) | Yes |
| Certified Documents | Yes |
| Certificate Copies | Yes |
| Company Search | Free |
| View Company Information | Free |
| Download Most Filed Documents | Usually Free |
Updating Your Companies House Information
Companies must be informed whenever key company details change. Keeping your company information accurate ensures legal compliance and helps maintain an up-to-date public record.
You should notify house if there are changes to:
Updating these details promptly helps your company remain compliant with UK company law and ensures the public register reflects accurate information.
Common Companies Problems and How to Fix Them
Most filing issues can be resolved quickly by following the correct procedure. The table below outlines common problems and their recommended solutions.
| Common Problem | Recommended Solution |
|---|---|
| Forgot your password | Use the password reset option to regain access to your account. |
| Lost your authentication code | Request a replacement authentication code, which will be sent to your registered office address. |
| Filing was rejected | Review the rejection notice, correct any errors, and submit the filing again. |
| Incorrect company information | File the appropriate update with Companies as soon as possible. |
| Missed a filing deadline | Submit the outstanding filing immediately and pay any applicable late filing penalties. |
| Unable to find a company | Verify the company name or company number and try searching again. |
Security Tips for Your Companies House Account
Protecting your Companies account is essential to prevent unauthorised access and keep your company information secure. Following a few simple security practices can help safeguard your business and reduce the risk of fraud.
To improve your account security:
Security Tip: Regularly monitor your Companies account for unexpected changes and report any suspicious activity immediately.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Conclusion
Companies House is the UK’s official register of companies and the primary platform for incorporating, managing, and maintaining business records. Whether you need to register a new company, perform a Companies search, file annual accounts, submit a Confirmation Statement, or update company details, its online services provide a secure and efficient way to meet your legal obligations.
Using the guidance in this article, you can confidently navigate the Companies system, complete required filings, monitor important deadlines, and keep your company information accurate. Staying on top of your compliance responsibilities not only helps you avoid penalties and filing delays but also strengthens your business’s credibility with customers, investors, and financial institutions.
As regulations, filing requirements, and service fees may change over time, it’s always best to use the official house website for the latest updates. Regularly reviewing your company’s filing history, maintaining accurate records, and submitting documents before their deadlines will help ensure your business remains compliant and in good standing throughout 2026 and beyond.
