How to Change a Limited Company Name

Rebranding is more than just a new logo and a fresh coat of paint on your website. For a UK limited company, it is a formal legal process governed by the Companies Act 2006. Whether you are pivoting your business model, resolving a trademark dispute, or simply outgrowing your original name, changing your registered name at Companies House requires precision.

In this guide, we will walk you through the legal requirements, the filing methods, and the essential "to-do" list after your new name is approved.

Pre-Filing Considerations

Before you hold a meeting or sign a single document, you must ensure your new name is actually available and legal.

1. The Availability Check

Just because a name isn't being used by a shop on your high street doesn't mean it's available. You must use the Companies House Service to search the register. Your name cannot be "the same as" or "too like" an existing name.

"Same as": Differences like "Limited" vs "Ltd" or punctuation are ignored.

"Too like": If your name is so similar to another that it is likely to confuse the public, Companies House may reject it or a competitor could file an objection later.

2. Sensitive Words and Expressions

Certain words require permission from the Secretary of State or other governing bodies. These include:

Royal associations: (e.g., "King," "Prince," "Windsor")

Professional status: (e.g., "Chartered," "Architect," "Health Center")

Geographic significance: (e.g., "British," "England")

The Legal Process (The Special Resolution)

Under the Companies Act, a company name is usually changed by passing a Special Resolution.

Step 1: Board Meeting

The directors must meet to discuss the proposed name change and agree to put it to a vote among the shareholders.

Step 2: General Meeting or Written Resolution

For most small-to-medium enterprises (SMEs), there are two ways to pass the resolution:

General Meeting: Shareholders meet and vote. A Special Resolution requires a majority of 75% or more to pass.

Written Resolution: For private limited companies, you can circulate a document. Again, 75% of the total voting rights must sign in favor.

Step 3: Record Keeping

Once passed, the resolution must be printed and signed. You are legally required to keep a copy of this resolution in your company records for 10 years.

Filing the Change with Companies House

Once you have the shareholders' approval, you must notify the Registrar of Companies. There are two primary ways to do this.

Method A: The Paper Route (Form NM01)

You can download and mail Form NM01 (Notice of change of name by resolution).

Cost: £30 (Standard) or £100 (Same day).

Timeline: Usually takes 5–10 working days.

Cons: Higher risk of manual error and slower turnaround.

Method B: Online Filing (Recommended)

Most modern businesses use a company secretarial software or the Companies House "WebFiling" service.

Cost: £20 (Standard) or £83 (Same day).

Timeline: Often approved within 3 to 24 hours.

Pros: Instant confirmation and lower fees.

Post-Approval Checklist

The name change is not legally "active" until Companies House issues a Certificate of Incorporation on Change of Name. Once you have this digital or physical certificate, you must update the following:

1. HMRC and Taxes

While Companies House usually notifies HMRC of the change, it is best practice to ensure your Corporation Tax, VAT, and PAYE records reflect the new name.

2. Banking and Finance

Banks are notoriously strict. You will need to provide your Certificate of Change of Name to update business accounts, credit cards, and loan agreements.

3. Business Stationery and Digital Presence

You are legally required to display your registered company name at:

Your registered office and any business location.

On your website (usually in the footer).

On business letters, invoices, and emails.

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Questions Clients Commonly Ask

Does changing my company name change my Company Number?

No. Your 8-digit company number remains exactly the same.

Can I change my name via a board meeting only?

Only if your Company Articles of Association specifically allow the directors to change the name without a shareholder vote. Most standard articles require a special resolution.

How long does it take for the new name to show on the register?

Online filings are usually updated within 24 hours.

Do I need to tell the bank?

Yes. You must provide the new Certificate of Incorporation.

Is there a fine for not changing my name on my website?

Yes, failure to display the correct registered name on business correspondence and websites can result in fines.

Can I use a "Trading As" name instead?

Yes, but your legal name (the one at Companies House) must still appear on all formal documents and your website.

Do I need a new VAT number?

No, your VAT number stays the same, but you must notify HMRC of the name change.

Will my old name be visible?

Yes, Companies House keeps a record of all previous names.

What is an NM01 form?

It is the official form used to notify Companies House of a name change by resolution.

Can someone else take my old name?

Yes, as soon as your name change is processed, the old name becomes available for others to register.

Do I need a new UTR (Unique Taxpayer Reference)?

No, your UTR remains the same.

What if my name is rejected?

You will receive a notice stating why (usually because it is too similar to an existing name). You will then need to pass a new resolution with a different name.

Do I need to change my contracts?

The legal entity remains the same, but it is good practice to send a formal notice to all contract holders.

How much does it cost?

Online filing is £20; paper filing is £30.

Does the name change affect my credit score?

It shouldn't, as the company number (the primary identifier for credit agencies) remains the same.

Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for general informational and research purposes only. Company details, features, services, and market positions may change over time. Readers are advised to visit official company websites and conduct independent research before making any business decisions or purchasing services.