From 1 February 2026, Companies House will introduce a series of updates that affect how businesses across the UK register, file and manage their company information. These changes form part of wider reforms to UK company law, aimed at improving transparency, compliance and the quality of information on the public register.
If you own or manage a company in Huntingdon or elsewhere in the UK, it's important to understand what's changing and how it could affect your costs and filing requirements. Here's what you need to know.
Why are these changes happening?
The UK government has been rolling out a package of reforms through the Economic Crime and Corporate Transparency Act. These updates give Companies House new powers to verify information, combat financial crime and ensure companies are being run legitimately.
As part of that process, Companies House is updating its fees and digital filing systems. While the adjustments may seem small on paper, they mark a significant step toward a more modern, data-driven approach to company administration.
For businesses, this means slightly higher filing costs but also more efficient and secure digital services.
7 fee changes at a glance
Here are some of the headline updates you need to know about, taking effect from 1 February 2026:
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Company incorporations (new company registrations) will cost £100 when filed digitally and £124 on paper.
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Same-day digital incorporations through approved software will increase to £156.
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Confirmation statements will rise to £50 for digital filings and £110 for paper submissions.
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Voluntary strike-offs, which allow you to close a company, will increase to £13 digitally or £18 on paper.
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Registration of a charge (such as a loan secured against company assets) will cost £14 digitally.
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Change of name (same day) filings will be £85.
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Administrative restorations, used to reinstate dissolved companies, will cost £341.
These new rates apply to companies, LLPs and limited partnerships, with similar increases across each category.
The key takeaway? Filing digitally will continue to be significantly cheaper than using paper forms. That's a deliberate incentive for businesses to go paperless.
Who's affected by the changes?
The updates apply to all registered entities in the UK, including:
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Private limited companies
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Public limited companies
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Limited liability partnerships (LLPs)
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Overseas entities with UK establishments
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Community interest companies (CICs)
Even if your business is small or dormant, you'll still need to be aware of the new fee structure and any relevant filing deadlines.
For example, small businesses filing annual confirmation statements or making changes to directors and shareholders will notice modest fee increases. For larger companies, particularly those registering charges or re-registering, the impact could be more significant over time.
Why it matters: accuracy and compliance
For many business owners, these changes highlight the growing importance of keeping your company records in order. With Companies House gaining stronger powers to verify identities, reject incorrect filings and query suspicious information, accuracy and compliance have never been more important.
Failing to submit documents correctly or on time could result in delays, penalties or even enforcement action. That's why it's worth reviewing your filing processes now and ensuring your company records are up to date before the changes take effect.
At WJB Finance, we help clients in Huntingdon and across Cambridgeshire stay compliant with all Companies House and HMRC requirements. That includes everything from company formation to ongoing reporting and tax planning.
The move toward digital filing
Another key element of these reforms is the emphasis on digital filing. Companies House is moving toward an entirely electronic system for most transactions, including incorporations, confirmation statements and charge registrations.
The advantages are clear:
For example, overseas entities are now required to file all documents digitally unless they have protected status. Paper filing will remain an option in limited cases, but it will become increasingly expensive and less convenient.
How to prepare your business
Now is a good time to review how your company manages filings and compliance. Here are a few practical steps:
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Move all filings online if you haven't already. Digital submissions will save you time and money.
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Update your registered information to ensure accuracy ahead of stricter identity verification rules.
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Review your annual budget to account for increased Companies House fees.
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Work with your accountant or financial advisor to make sure you're meeting every requirement and using the most efficient systems possible.
At WJB Finance, we provide tailored advice for local businesses, helping you stay ahead of changes like these. Above all, we give you the confidence that your filings, records and financial systems are compliant and efficient.
Need any help?
The 2026 Companies House fee updates are part of a wider effort to strengthen the UK's corporate framework. While they bring modest cost increases, they also create opportunities for businesses to modernise, digitise and improve their financial processes.
By preparing early and embracing digital filing, you can make the transition smoothly and avoid unnecessary stress or expense later.
If you'd like help understanding how these changes affect your business, the team at WJB Finance in Huntingdon is here to help. We combine local expertise with national insight to give you clear, practical advice that helps your business thrive. To get started, book your free consultation.