Companies House reforms for 2025/26 – what SMEs need to know

A series of significant reforms to Companies House rules and processes are being rolled out, with further changes expected over the coming months.

These updates form part of the Economic Crime and Corporate Transparency Act (ECCTA), a wide ranging reform package aiming to make the UK business environment more transparent, secure and less open to misuse.

If you run or manage a company, it’s important to understand what these changes mean in practice. Below is a clear overview of the key reforms and when they take effect.

Mandatory identity verification from 18 November 2025

One of the most significant changes is the introduction of compulsory identity verification (IDV). From 18 November 2025, anyone who sets up, owns or controls a company must verify their identity using a Gov One account. This includes company directors, People with Significant Control (PSCs) and members of LLPs.

From spring 2026, IDV is also expected to apply to company secretaries and individuals who file documents on behalf of a company. The aim of this reform is to reduce fraud, improve transparency and strengthen trust in the UK corporate register.

Changes to company registers

Also effective from 18 November 2025, companies are no longer required to maintain their own internal registers for directors, secretaries or PSCs. Instead, changes will simply be reported directly to Companies House as they occur, removing duplication and simplifying compliance.

However, the register of members (shareholders) remains a legal requirement. Companies must continue to maintain their own shareholder register and keep it at their registered office or a Single Alternative Inspection Location (SAIL). Businesses that previously relied on the central register will need to ensure their own shareholder records are complete and up to date from November 2025.

WebFiling moves to GOV One Login

From 13 October 2025, Companies House WebFiling users must sign in using GOV One Login. This change forms part of a wider government initiative to introduce a single, more secure login across online services.

Businesses should ensure filing email addresses are current and consistent and review who is authorised to file on their behalf. Shared WebFiling accounts will no longer be possible due to two factor authentication.

New Companies House fees from 1 February 2026

From 1 February 2026, several statutory fees will change. The digital incorporation fee will rise to £100, the confirmation statement fee will increase to £50 and the voluntary strike off fee will reduce to £13.

While some increases are notable, Companies House has stated its fees remain low by international standards. The additional income will be used to support enhanced powers, including challenging suspicious filings, removing false information and assisting Insolvency Service investigations.

What this means for SMEs

Taken together, these reforms represent some of the most significant updates to UK company law in recent years. While the changes are manageable for most businesses, they will require preparation, awareness and timely support to ensure continued compliance.

If you have any questions or queries, please get in touch with your Swindells partner who will be able to help further.