How to Change Your Company Name | Step-by-Step UK Guide 2026

Changing your limited company name is a straightforward process in the UK, but it must follow strict rules under the Companies Act 2006 to ensure the new name is legal, available, and properly registered with Companies House. In 2026, the process remains largely unchanged from previous years, but mandatory identity verification for directors and PSCs (effective since late 2025) applies to name change filings, and Companies House fees were updated in February 2026.

Reasons to change your name include rebranding, reflecting new ownership, expanding services, or resolving trademark conflicts. The change takes effect only when Companies House registers it and issues an updated Certificate of Incorporation.

Important 2026 Notes

• All directors and persons with significant control (PSCs) must have verified their identity with Companies House before a name change application is accepted.
• Standard online filing fee: £20 (unchanged for standard processing).
• Same-day service (if available): £85 (slightly increased from previous £83).
• Paper filing: £30 (if not using online).
• Processing time: Usually 24 hours for online standard filings; same-day if premium service requested and approved.

Step-by-Step Process to Change Your Company Name

Step 1: Choose and Check Your New Name

Your new name must comply with Companies House rules:

• Unique and not "too similar" to existing registered names.
• Not offensive or implying criminal connection.
• If using sensitive words (e.g., "Royal", "Bank", "Chartered"), seek prior approval from relevant bodies.
• End with "Limited" or "Ltd" (or Welsh equivalents if applicable).
• No symbols or characters not allowed.

Check availability:

• Use the free Companies House name availability checker on GOV.UK.
• Search trademarks on the UK Intellectual Property Office (IPO) database to avoid infringement.
• Google and domain name searches for branding conflicts.

Tip: Reserve the name informally by checking early—names can be taken quickly.

Step 2: Obtain Shareholder Approval

For most private limited companies (following Model Articles):

• Pass a special resolution requiring at least 75% of shareholders' votes in favour.
• This can be done via:
  • Written resolution (circulated and signed by shareholders).
  • At a general meeting (EGM or AGM).
• Draft the resolution clearly: "That the name of the company be changed from [Old Name] Limited to [New Name] Limited."
• Record it in company minutes and keep copies.
• If your Articles allow name changes by ordinary resolution or board decision, follow that route (less common).

Sole director/shareholder companies: You can pass the resolution yourself as 100% owner.

Step 3: Prepare Supporting Documents

• Copy of the signed special resolution (or written resolution).
• If using Articles permission instead of special resolution: Relevant evidence.
• Ensure all directors/PSCs have completed identity verification via Companies House (IDV) – this is mandatory for processing.

Step 4: File with Companies House

Preferred method: Online via Companies House WebFiling or integrated software.

• Log in to your Companies House account (or create one).
• Use the "File changes to your company" service.
• Select "Change of name by special resolution".
• Enter company number, old name, new name.
• Upload the resolution.
• Pay £20 (standard) or £85 (same-day if urgent and available).
• Submit.

Alternative:

• Download and complete Form NM01 (Notice of change of name by resolution).
• Attach resolution copy.
• Pay £30 by cheque and post to Companies House address on the form.

Companies House reviews for compliance. If approved:

• They register the change.
• Issue a new Certificate of Incorporation (showing new name and same company number).
• Update public register immediately.

The name change is effective from the registration date.

Step 5: Update All Records and Stakeholders

Notify and update:

• HMRC (Corporation Tax, PAYE, VAT if registered).
• Banks (update account name, cheques, cards).
• Suppliers, customers, contracts, invoices.
• Website, domain, email addresses, social media.
• Branding materials, signage, stationery.
• Insurance policies, leases, licences.
• Intellectual property (trademarks – consider re-registering).
• Google Business Profile, directories.

No need to update Companies House-issued documents like old certificates retroactively.

Step 6: Consider Professional Help (Optional but Recommended)

If your company is complex (multiple shareholders, sensitive words, international elements), use an accountant, solicitor, or formation agent. They handle resolution drafting, filing, and checks for £50–£200 extra.

10 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. How long does a company name change take in 2026? Usually 24 hours for online

standard filings; same-day possible with £85 premium service if submitted early and no issues.

2. What is the fee to change a company name in 2026? £20 online standard; £85 same-day digital; £30 paper filing.

3. Do I need shareholder approval to change the name? Yes—typically a special resolution (75%+ vote) unless your Articles specify otherwise.

4. What if my new name is rejected by Companies House? Common reasons: too similar to existing name, sensitive words without approval, or offensive. Check availability first and appeal or choose another.

5. Does the company number change? No—the company number remains the same; only the name updates.

6. Do I need to inform HMRC separately? Yes—notify HMRC via your online tax account or post to update records for tax, VAT, PAYE.

7. Is identity verification required for name changes? Yes—since November 2025, all directors and PSCs must be ID-verified before Companies House accepts the application.

8. Can I change the name back if I regret it? Yes—follow the same process again (new resolution and filing).

9. What about trademarks and domain names? Register the new name as a trademark if important. Secure matching domain/email early to avoid cybersquatting.

10. When should I use a professional service? If unsure about resolution, sensitive words,

multiple shareholders, or to save time—many offer full handling for low cost.

Changing your UK limited company name in 2026 is quick and inexpensive (£20 online) if you follow the rules: check availability, secure 75% shareholder approval via special resolution, file online with resolution attached, and update stakeholders afterward. With mandatory ID verification now in place, ensure all directors/PSCs are verified first to avoid delays. This process rebrands your business without affecting its legal identity or company number. For complex cases or peace of mind, consult an accountant or use a formation agent's name change service. Always verify latest details on GOV.UK, as minor procedural tweaks can occur.

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.