We introduced the first set of changes under the Economic Crime and Corporate Transparency Act on 4 March 2024.
The act gives Companies House the power to play a more significant role in tackling economic crime and supporting economic growth. Over time, the measures will lead to improved transparency and more accurate and trusted information on our registers.
There are new responsibilities for:
- all new and existing company directors
- people with significant control of a company (PSCs)
- anyone who files on behalf of a company
Find out what’s changing for you and your company, so you can take action at the right time.
Improving the quality of data on our registers
From 4 March 2024, greater powers for Companies House to query information, stronger checks on company names, new rules for registered office addresses, and new lawful purpose statements.
Confirmation statement changes
From 4 March 2024, new requirements to provide a registered email address and to confirm that the intended future activities of the company will be lawful.
Changes to Companies House fees
From 1 May 2024, we’re increasing fees to take new future expenditure into account, as well as making sure costs are recovered from existing expenditure.
Identity verification
Anyone setting up, running, owning or controlling a company in the UK will need to verify their identity.
Changes to accounts
Transitioning towards filing accounts by software only, and changes to small company accounts filing options.
Protecting your information
Individuals will be able to apply to suppress personal information from historical documents, and apply to have personal information protected from public view because of risk of harm.
Changes to limited partnerships
Limited partnerships will need to file their information through authorised agents, and they’ll need to file more information with Companies House.
Improving transparency of company ownership
New requirements to provide additional shareholder information, and restrictions on the use of corporate directors.
Investigation, enforcement and data sharing
More effective investigation and enforcement powers for Companies House, and new powers to share data with law enforcement agencies and other government departments.
