(Source:  Changes to Companies House fees – GOV.UK )

Even online filings, which are still the most economical choice, will experience noticeable price increases. Paper filings, which require manual processing, are significantly higher to reflect administrative costs.

What This Means for UK Businesses

The fee increase will be minimal for the majority of small and medium-sized businesses. But the effects go beyond price; they indicate a change towards more rigorous accountability and compliance.

Here’s what businesses should expect:

1. Plan for Slightly Higher Filing Costs

In order to account for the new Companies House fees, businesses will need to update their budgets. Although most increases are moderate, regular filings like confirmation statements or company name changes will now carry a higher cumulative cost over time.

2. Expect Tighter Data Verification

Companies House will have more power to review and reject filings with incomplete or inaccurate information. Before incorporation or when making changes, directors and People with Significant Control (PSCs) will have to confirm their identities.

3. Embrace Digital Filing

Online applications continue to be quicker and more affordable than paper ones. In order to save time and money under the new system, businesses that currently rely on postal submissions should transition to digital platforms.

4. Keep Your Records Up to Date

It will be more crucial than ever to have accurate company information. Any differences between your internal data and Companies House records could cause delays or problems with verification.

Why This Change Matters

Fee increases are rarely appealing, but this one has significant advantages for businesses and the general public. Companies House seeks to create a more reliable business environment in the UK by providing funding for advancements in technology and data verification.

The UK has long been known for its quick company formation process and ease of doing business. But because of its accessibility, it was also susceptible to abuse, such as fraudulent registrations, fictitious addresses, and shell corporations.

These changes help address that by:

• Protecting legitimate businesses from fraud and reputational risk.
• Ensuring greater confidence among investors, suppliers, and clients.
• Improving the UK’s global reputation for business integrity and corporate governance.

In essence, this is an investment in the credibility of the UK’s business ecosystem.

Preparing Your Business for the Change

Even though February 2026 might seem far off, it’s crucial to begin planning now. In addition to new fees, the reforms include procedural changes that will have an impact on how businesses run.

Here’s how to prepare:

• Review Your Company Information

Verify that the director information, PSC information, and registered office address are correct and up to date. Before the new verification regulations are put into effect, any errors should be fixed.

• Switch to Digital Filings

Think about switching to digital submissions if you still use paper submissions. Once the new fee structure is implemented, it will continue to be the most economical choice in addition to saving time.

• Budget for Increased Fees

Adjust your financial projections to account for a small increase in filing expenses. This is particularly crucial for companies that file on a regular basis throughout the year or have several entities.

• Stay Informed

Regularly check the official government updates at changestoukcompanylaw.campaign.gov.uk and gov.uk.
As the implementation date draws near, Companies House will keep issuing new guidelines and information.

• Seek Professional Guidance

Consult a qualified accountant or company formation agent if you have any questions about how these reforms may impact your company filings. They can assist you in making process adjustments, guaranteeing compliance, and avoiding needless fines.

A Step Towards Greater Trust and Transparency

Although this update might appear to be a standard administrative change, it represents a significant advancement in the business governance environment in the UK. Companies House is becoming a proactive gatekeeper of corporate integrity rather than merely a registrar.

This change serves as a reminder to business owners to take corporate compliance seriously in order to avoid fines and to keep the trust of partners, investors, and customers.

In 2026, new fees and reforms will be implemented in an effort to create a more transparent and safe business environment that will benefit all parties involved in the UK economy.