Companies House isn’t the same anymore

Companies House isn’t the same anymore: what reforms in 2026 mean for your business

Companies House is going through significant changes. Directors and shareholders of companies need to be familiar with the reforms to ensure their company, and them as individuals, remain compliant with the new regime. These reforms are part of a broader programme introduced under the Economic Crime and Corporate Transparency Act 2023. Their overarching aim is to strengthen the integrity of the UK corporate register, combat economic crime, and improve transparency.

While the policy objectives are clear, many business owners and directors are understandably asking: what does this mean in practice?

In this article, Gilson Gray provides guidance on some of the key changes to be aware of and some tips on what businesses can do to prepare.

Mandatory Identity Verification

Since 18 November 2025, Companies House brought in the requirement for all new directors and Persons with Significant Control (PSC) to verify their identity with the Registrar of Companies (“Registrar”). During 2026, there will be a phased-in process for existing companies, which is linked to the date of their Confirmation Statement filing.

Failure to comply is not merely administrative. Directors who do not verify their identity may face restrictions on acting, financial penalties, and potential criminal consequences. Companies themselves may also commit an offence if they allow an unverified individual to act as a director.

This represents a shift in Companies House’s role. Historically, the Registrar acted largely as a passive recipient of information. It is now becoming an active gatekeeper of corporate legitimacy.

Directors must ensure all relevant persons for the company have verified themselves within the timelines that applies to the specific company to prevent interruption to business, or enforcement actions.

Stronger Enforcement Powers

The above-mentioned shift is also seen in the expansion of Companies House’s authority: the Registrar has been given stronger enforcement powers. In the past, Companies House had limited ability to challenge or reject inaccurate or suspicious filings. Under the new framework, the Registrar will receive the powers to:

•       Reject documents that appear inconsistent or fraudulent
•       Query information and ask for supporting evidence
•       Share data more proactively with law enforcement agencies
•       Impose civil financial penalties
•       Initiate company strike-off in certain circumstances

This marks a clear departure from the previous model of “file and publish.” Directors should therefore assume that filings may be scrutinised more closely and ensure absolute accuracy before submission.

Increased Filing Fees

As of 1 February 2026 Companies House filing fees have increased. This includes company incorporation fee, which has increased from £50 to £100, and Confirmation Statement filings, increased from £34 to £50. For a full list of the new fees,follow this link to Companies House.

The increased fees are intended to fund the enhanced enforcement powers, system upgrades, and improved data verification processes.

Businesses should review their annual compliance budgets and factor in these higher costs going forward.

Authorised Corporate Service Providers (ACSPs)

Agents who file on behalf of companies must become registered Authorised Corporate Service Providers (ACSPs) to carry out the service. As of November 2026, companies will no longer be able to use unregistered agents.

Businesses that outsource company secretarial functions should confirm that their advisers are compliant with the new registration requirements.

What Actions Should I Take as a Director of a Company? 

The UK corporate register is moving toward a more tightly regulated and enforcement-driven model. Therefore, if you are a director of a company ensure you are prepared for the changes coming into force in 2026. This can be done by:

•       Conducting an internal compliance audit of shareholder and PSC information;
•       checking that all directors, and necessary shareholders have verified themselves on Companies House in time for the Confirmation Statement filing;
•       Carefully checking all filings before submission to ensure absolute accuracy as the consequences of submitting incorrect or inconsistent data can be more severe;
•       Ensuring your finance team is informed and can budget for the increases in filing costs; and
•       Confirming that any third-party filing agents are properly authorised.

Directorship has always carried legal responsibilities. From 2026 onwards, those responsibilities will be more actively monitored and enforced by Companies House. If you are uncertain how these changes affect your company, early legal or professional advice can prevent costly mistakes. Gilson Gray has an experienced team that would be delighted to help answer questions and ensure you are compliant with your filings and other requirements. Please get in touch today.