Accountant For A Limited Company

How to Change a Company Name at Companies House

Changing your limited company name requires filing form NM01 with Companies House after passing a special resolution. The online filing fee is £22 and the paper fee is £30. This guide walks through the process for limited companies and LLPs, including naming rules, approval requirements and how long the change takes to process.

By Jordan Macey MAAT Reviewed by Noor Fiaz Updated 16 Apr 2026 1

Key takeaways

To change a company name, shareholders must pass a special resolution (75% majority), then file form NM01 with Companies House. The online fee is £22 and the paper fee is £30.
LLPs use form LL NM01 instead of NM01, but the process and fees are otherwise identical.
Companies House typically processes online name changes within 24 hours, while paper applications take eight to ten working days.
Your new name must not be the same as or too similar to an existing registered company name, and it must not contain sensitive words without prior approval.

Changing your Limited Company name

You can change the name of your limited company through a third party (such as a company formation service), or directly with Companies House.

If you're opting for the latter, you need to complete form NM01. There is a £10 fee payable to Companies House to file the form.

If you're trading as a limited liability partnership, you need to file form LL NM01. A £10 fee applies.

Frequently asked questions

How much does it cost to change a company name?

The Companies House fee for filing form NM01 online is £22, and the paper filing fee is £30. These fees were updated in May 2024. There may be additional costs if you need to update stationery, signage, bank accounts or domain names. If your articles require a specific process, you may also need legal advice on passing the resolution.

What is the process to change a limited company name?

First, check your proposed name is available on the Companies House register. Then pass a special resolution at a general meeting or by written resolution, requiring at least 75% shareholder approval. File form NM01 with Companies House along with a copy of the resolution. Once approved, you receive an updated certificate of incorporation.

How long does a company name change take?

Online applications through the Companies House web filing service are usually processed within 24 hours. Paper applications sent by post take approximately eight to ten working days. If your chosen name includes a sensitive word or expression, an additional approval step with the relevant body may extend the timeline by several weeks.

Can Companies House reject a company name change?

Yes. Companies House will reject a name that is identical to or too similar to an existing registered name, contains a sensitive word without approval, or is offensive. They can also direct a company to change its name within 12 months of registration if it is too similar to another name. Always search the register before filing.

Do I need to update HMRC after changing my company name?

HMRC is normally notified automatically through the Companies House and HMRC data-sharing arrangement. However, it is good practice to confirm with HMRC that your corporation tax, PAYE and VAT records have been updated. You should also update your business bank account, insurance policies, contracts and any regulatory registrations.

How does an LLP change its name?

An LLP changes its name by filing form LL NM01 with Companies House. The process requires agreement from the members as set out in the LLP agreement. If the agreement is silent on name changes, all members must agree. The filing fees and timescales are the same as for a limited company name change.

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