Changing your company name is straightforward but there are rules to follow. The process involves passing a resolution, filing with Companies House and updating all business documentation.
Rules on Names
- Must be unique — search BizLookup to check
- Must end in "Limited" or "Ltd" (or PLC equivalent)
- Cannot contain sensitive words (Royal, British, Authority) without approval
- Cannot be offensive
The Process
- Pass a special resolution — 75% of shareholders must vote in favour
- File form NM01 — £8 online or £10 by paper
- Companies House reviews — usually 24-48 hours online
- Receive new Certificate of Incorporation — company number stays the same
After the Change
Update: bank accounts, HMRC records, stationery, website, contracts, insurance, domain names, social media and signage. The real cost of a name change is not the £8 filing fee but updating everything else.
Directed Changes
The Secretary of State can direct a name change if it is too similar to an existing name, misleading or offensive. You have 5 weeks to comply.
Cost
Companies House fee: £8 (online) or £10 (paper). Same-day: £30. Budget for updating bank, stationery and website. Use CalcPad to plan the transition costs.