Change company name
Company Name Change
Looking to update your registered company name? Submit your name change electronically today, hassle-free.
What is a Company Name Change?
A company name change occurs when a business decides to modify its legally registered name on the Companies House register. Any alteration, no matter how minor, must be filed with Companies House—for example, changing from JS Limited to John S Limited.
Easily update your company name by choosing our packages starting from £79.99. You can add the option for a same day Company Name Change for £ 50.00. Our packages include online submission of your name change, with filing fees covered. An optional same-day service is available for an additional cost.
Note: Your registered company name is distinct from your trading or business name. You are free to change your trading name as you wish, as long as the registered name is displayed on all official documents.
If your proposed company name includes a restricted term, such as "King," you won't be able to make the name change through the online system. In this case, a paper submission along with the required documentation will be necessary. Unfortunately, we do not offer assistance with paper-based applications.
Once Companies House approves the new company name, it is recorded on the official register, replacing the previous one. A 'Certificate of Incorporation on Change of Name' will be made available for download from your online account. This certificate will display both the old and new company names as well as the date the new name became effective. However, please note that the certificate will also show the previous company name, as the original certificate of incorporation (which only contains the original name) is only issued at the time of company formation. The company number remains unchanged.
You must notify HMRC of the updated company name for Corporation Tax, VAT, and PAYE purposes. Additionally, you will need to inform your bank, customers, suppliers, service providers, relevant authorities, and other key business contacts. Don't forget to update your company's stationery, signage, website, and domain name as well.
We strongly recommend using our company name search tool to check the availability of your desired name before placing an order. If your initial submission is rejected by Companies House, you will have the opportunity to submit a new company name at no extra charge.
On average, it takes around 3 working days for Companies House to process a company name change, though this timeframe may vary depending on their workload. If you need the change processed urgently, a same-day service is also available, just add the option when you order.