By
August 25, 2026
How Do I Change the Name of a UK Limited Company?
A UK limited company can change its registered name by obtaining the required approval and notifying Companies House. In most cases, shareholders must pass a special resolution before the change can be registered.
The company’s name does not officially change until Companies House accepts the application and issues a new certificate of incorporation.
Before starting the process, check that the proposed name:
You should also check suitable domain names and social media usernames before approving the change.
A company can normally change its name through:
Review the company’s articles to confirm the required procedure.
Most companies change their name by passing a special resolution.
A special resolution usually requires approval from shareholders holding at least 75% of the voting rights. It may be passed at a general meeting or through a written resolution, depending on the company’s articles and circumstances.
Keep a signed copy of the resolution in the company’s statutory records.
If the name was changed by special resolution, notify Companies House using form NM01.
The change can normally be submitted:
A copy of the special resolution must also be filed. Companies House charges a filing fee, which may differ depending on whether the application is submitted online, by post or using an expedited service.
If the name is changed using authority contained in the company’s articles, a different form and procedure may apply.
Do not begin using the new registered name as if the change is complete immediately after submitting the application.
The change only becomes legally effective when Companies House registers it and issues a certificate of incorporation on change of name.
The company keeps the same:
Changing the name does not create a new company.
After receiving the new certificate, update the company name wherever it appears.
This may include:
Some organisations may request a copy of the new certificate before updating their records.
A company-name change does not normally create a new legal entity or automatically cancel existing contracts.
However, the company should notify customers, suppliers, landlords, lenders and other contracting parties. Contracts and records may need to be updated so that future documents show the correct registered name.
No. The company registration number remains the same.
The unchanged number helps show that the renamed company is the same legal entity. The former name and name-change history will usually remain visible on the Companies House register.
Processing times depend on the filing method, whether the documents are correct and the current Companies House workload.
Online applications are generally processed faster than postal applications. An expedited service may be available for an additional fee.
You should avoid printing new stationery or launching new branding until the change has been approved.
Yes. An application may be rejected if:
Checking the name and documentation carefully can prevent delays.
Before using the new company name:
To change the name of a UK limited company, choose a compliant new name, obtain the required shareholder approval and register the change with Companies House.
The new name becomes official only when Companies House issues the updated certificate of incorporation. The company keeps its existing registration number and remains the same legal entity.
