Companies House Fees Are Changing: What UK Businesses Need to Know for 2026
From 1 February 2026, Companies House will be introducing a new fee structure as part of a wider modernisation effort and major reforms to the UK’s corporate transparency framework. As the official registrar of companies, Companies House plays a central role in maintaining accurate business records — and these updates aim to strengthen that role while improving efficiency and tackling economic crime.
Below, we break down what’s changing, why it matters, and how it could affect your business.
Why Are Companies House Fees Changing?
The fee updates form part of a broader transformation driven by the Economic Crime and Corporate Transparency Act, which gives Companies House new powers to:
- Carry out identity checks
- Strengthen anti-fraud measures
- Improve data validation
- Monitor and challenge inaccurate information
To support these responsibilities, Companies House is undergoing significant technology investment, and the new fees help fund these upgrades. The aim is to create a more secure, transparent, and reliable corporate register for the UK.
What Fees Are Changing?
The updated fees show a clear shift toward encouraging digital filing. Digital submissions will remain the most cost-effective option for businesses, while paper filings will come at a higher cost.
Transaction | Format | New fee |
|---|---|---|
Incorporation | Digital | £50 |
Incorporation | Software | £50 |
Incorporation | Paper | £71 |
Same-day incorporation | Software | £78 |
Confirmation statement | Digital | £34 |
Confirmation statement | Software | £34 |
Confirmation statement | Paper | £62 |
Change of name | Digital | £20 |
Change of name | Paper | £30 |
Registration of a charge | Digital | £15 |
Registration of a charge | Paper | £24 |
Voluntary strike-off | Digital | £33 |
Voluntary strike-off | Paper | £44 |
These adjustments strongly encourage businesses to make full use of digital services, which offer quicker processing and greater efficiency.
For a full list of all amended fees, you can visit the government’s
https://changestoukcompanylaw.campaign.gov.uk/changes-to-companies-house-fees/
How Will These Changes Impact Business Owners?
1. Financial Considerations
While not drastic, the new fees may affect cash flow — particularly for businesses that frequently submit filings or rely on paper processes. Planning ahead will help minimise disruption and costs.
2. Digital Benefits
The fee structure favours digital-first businesses. If you already file online, the changes should have minimal impact. If your business still uses paper forms, now may be the time to transition to digital filings to keep costs down.
3. Increased Transparency and Security
The reforms aim to make the UK one of the most transparent and fraud-resistant business environments in the world. Over time, businesses should benefit from:
- Safer corporate data
- More reliable company information
- Reduced risk of identity misuse
Preparing for the 2026 Changes
Businesses should take the next year to familiarise themselves with the new requirements and ensure they are ready for additional checks and costs, particularly identity verification.
If you would like help preparing your business for these changes or need support with digital filings, feel free to get in touch. To find out more about Companies house fees changing, visit https://www.gov.uk/government/news/companies-house-fees-are-changing-from-1-february-2026
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