How to Change Your Company Name
Whether you're rebranding or restructuring, changing your limited company name is straightforward when you know the steps. Here's everything you need to do.
Why Do Companies Change Their Name?
There are many reasons a business might change its name — a shift in direction, a merger, a rebrand, or simply outgrowing the original name. Whatever the reason, the process in the UK is governed by Companies House and involves a few key steps to make it official and ensure all the right parties are notified.
Below we walk you through the full process, from checking your new name is available to notifying HMRC and your bank.
Check if Your New Name Is Available
Before you file anything, make sure no other company is already using your proposed name. Search the Companies House register below.
Step-by-Step: Changing Your Company Name
Check Your Proposed Name
Use the name checker above to make sure no other company is already registered with the same or a very similar name. Companies House has strict rules about names that are "too like" existing ones.
Pass a Special Resolution
A company name change requires a special resolution — at least 75% of shareholders must agree. For single-director companies this is straightforward; you simply document the resolution in writing.
File with Companies House
You can file the name change online by logging into your Companies House account and filing form NM01. The fee is currently £8 online (or £10 by post). Once approved, you'll receive a new Certificate of Incorporation.
Don't want the hassle? We can handle the entire name change process for you — from the resolution to the filing. Get in touch and we'll take care of it.
Update Your Records Everywhere
Once Companies House confirms the change, you need to update every party that holds your company details. Missing any of these can cause problems down the line.
Who You Need to Notify
HMRC
Write to HMRC to update your Corporation Tax, PAYE, and VAT records with your new company name.
Your Bank
Contact your bank to update your business account name. They'll usually need sight of your new Certificate of Incorporation.
Insurance Provider
Notify your business insurance provider so your policies remain valid under the new name.
Contracts & Agreements
Review and update any ongoing contracts, supplier agreements, and client terms to reflect the new company name.
Stationery & Branding
Update your website, invoices, letterheads, email signatures, and any printed materials.
Other Regulators
If your business is regulated (e.g. FCA, ICO), notify the relevant bodies of the change.
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Common Questions
How do I change my limited company name?
You can change your company name by passing a special resolution (with 75% shareholder approval) and filing form NM01 with Companies House. There's a small filing fee and it usually takes a few days to process.
How much does it cost to change a company name?
The Companies House filing fee is £8 for an online submission or £10 by post. If you use an accountant or company secretary to handle the process, their professional fees will be additional.
How long does a company name change take?
If filed online, Companies House typically processes the change within 24 hours. Postal applications can take 8–10 working days. After that, you'll need to update HMRC, your bank, insurers, and other parties.
Can my accountant change my company name for me?
Yes. Your accountant or company formation agent can handle the entire process — from checking name availability and drafting the resolution to filing with Companies House and notifying HMRC on your behalf.