Starting a new company comes with a variety of responsibilities, making it essential to stay organized and manage your filing and documentation efficiently. This organization helps ease the pressures of running your own business. It’s important to know where to find key information such as your company tax number and WebFiling code, as well as to understand what these numbers and codes represent for your business. While knowing your WebFiling code might not be a top priority in your daily tasks, recognizing its significance is crucial for any business owner.

Upon the incorporation of a limited company in the UK, Companies House issues a unique company authentication code. This 6-digit alphanumeric code is critical for enabling authorized personnel to carry out essential online activities related to the company, such as filing documents, updating company information, and managing statutory requirements.

The company authentication code can typically be found in the official incorporation letter sent by Companies House at the time of registration. For those who may misplace the code, there is an option to request a replacement from Companies House, ensuring that authorized individuals can regain access to their company’s online services. Moreover, if necessary, the code can be changed for security reasons via the Companies House WebFiling system, providing an additional layer of protection for the company’s information and activities.

Your company authentication code is a unique 6-character alphanumeric code issued by Companies House at the time your company is registered. This code functions as an electronic signature and is essential for completing various online tasks related to your company. Specifically, you will need to provide this code when filing electronic documents or making any updates to your company’s details through online platforms.

It is vital to treat your company authentication code with the same level of security and confidentiality as your bank card PIN. Safeguard this code to prevent unauthorized access, as only individuals with the appropriate authority should be able to obtain it. By limiting access to trusted personnel, you help to protect your company from unauthorized changes or filings that could have serious legal and financial implications. Always store this code in a secure location and consider implementing additional security measures, such as two-factor authentication, to further enhance its protection.

To successfully submit your company’s confirmation statement and annual accounts or to make any necessary updates to directors, addresses, or shareholding details, it is essential to obtain and use the designated code. Without this code, these critical actions cannot be completed, which may lead to compliance issues or delays in maintaining your company’s records. Ensure you secure this code to facilitate the smooth processing of your company’s statutory requirements.

— Use an Online Companies House Agent Service —
To rapidly establish a company with an authentication code in England, use an online company formation service to submit your application and receive the code electronically. Our services can get you registered in as little as 24 hours, and we will email you the authentication code with other formation documents once Companies House approves the registration. The company authentication code is for authorizing online filings for the company. It is different from a personal code that is issued to individuals when they verify their identity.

All UK limited companies are issued a unique company authentication code by Companies House at the time of their incorporation. The Companies House authentication code is a unique identifier assigned to each limited by guarantee and limited by shares company created in the UK. This code serves as an essential security measure, allowing authorized individuals to confirm their identity when filing documents or making changes on behalf of the company. A business authentication code introduced by the Registry of Companies ensures that only authorized persons can legally make changes to a company. It is important to note that the issuance of this authentication code occurs regardless of whether the company was established through an online application or by submitting paper documents.

In this blog post, we will delve into several key aspects concerning the company authentication code. We will explain what it is, provide guidance on how to locate your specific code, outline the steps to request a new code if it has been lost or forgotten, and describe the process for changing your current code if necessary. Additionally, we will discuss the varying timeframes for receiving your authentication code, which can depend on the method chosen for your company’s incorporation. Understanding these elements is crucial for maintaining the integrity and security of your company’s operations.

If you have utilized Coddan CPM for the formation of your company, you will have immediate access to your authentication code. As soon as your incorporation application is approved by Companies House, you can log into our complimentary company records management software. You will use your code to register for the Companies House WebFiling Service and an alternative e-Filing software platform.

Coddan CPM efficiently retrieves your company authentication code directly from Companies House, ensuring accuracy and timeliness. You can find this code displayed in the Filing Details section under the Company tab within the software. This streamlined process allows you to quickly move forward with submitting any necessary changes to your company or digitally filing pertinent documents without delay. This efficient access simplifies the management of your company’s compliance requirements, ensuring you stay up to date with the latest submissions and filings.

If Coddan CPM offers a virtual office address for your company, serving as the official registered office address or director service address, we can facilitate the acquisition of the official authentication code. This code will be provided on an official letter issued by Companies House, ensuring that all documentation is legitimate and recognized. Use our service to obtain a company’s authentication code sent to an active officer’s home address instead of the registered office. Easily request your authorization code by creating an account or signing in to Companies House WebFiling; follow our simple steps to get started.

Coddan CPM incorporates company and partnership authentication codes within all of our business formation packages. These codes are essential as they serve as unique identifiers for your business and are considered proprietary assets. They are not owned by us; rather, they belong to your organization and are tied to your appointed officers, including directors and shareholders. Ensuring the proper management and security of these codes is vital for the integrity of your business operations.

Furthermore, should you choose to register your company using the paper form IN01, we will also provide a registered office address. This process will enable us to efficiently obtain your authentication code, simplifying your registration experience and ensuring compliance with all regulatory requirements. Our goal is to make the process as seamless as possible, allowing you to focus on growing your business.

Companies formed using Companies House.

If you have registered your company with Companies House, it is important to wait for your WebFiling authentication code, which will be sent to you by postal mail. This code is essential for accessing online services related to your company. According to the guidelines provided by Companies House, you should expect to receive your authentication code within approximately five business days following your company’s incorporation. If you have not received it within this timeframe, it is advisable to contact Companies House for assistance. The Companies House authentication code enables electronic changes to your limited company online.

Companies House Authentication Code Letter.

The Companies House authentication code letter is a critical official document issued to a company’s registered office address upon incorporation. This letter contains a unique 6-digit alphanumeric authentication code that is essential for submitting online filings, such as annual returns and changes to company details, through the Companies House WebFiling service.

To find your authentication code, first check the original Companies House letter that you received during the incorporation process. Alternatively, you can log into the Companies House WebFiling service and review your saved account details, where the code may also be stored. It’s important to remember that, for security reasons, Companies House does not provide the authentication code via email or telephone.

If you are unable to locate the code through these methods, you can request a replacement. This can be done by submitting a request to Companies House, and a new authentication code will be sent to either your registered office address or the home address of one of the company’s directors. This ensures that only authorized individuals have access to sensitive company information.

Once your company has been successfully incorporated, one of the most critical pieces of information you will receive is your authentication code. This unique code is analogous to an electronic signature or a bank card PIN; anyone who possesses it will have the ability to control and access your company’s sensitive details. For this reason, it is crucial to safeguard this code diligently and only share it with individuals you trust completely to manage or modify your company’s information responsibly.

The authentication code is composed of 6 alphanumeric characters, ensuring a robust level of security. It will be provided to you in an official letter, which is sent to your registered office address during the setup process of your company. This code serves as a powerful tool, granting you, or any authorized person, the capability to file or amend your company’s information online efficiently.

In addition to enabling changes to your corporate details, the authentication code plays a vital role in enhancing the security of your company account. By preventing unauthorized access, it helps protect your company’s legal and financial information from potential threats, ensuring that only trusted individuals can intervene in your company’s affairs. Therefore, handling this authentication code with care is paramount for maintaining the integrity and security of your business.

— Code is Used to Authorise Information e-Filed Online —
The Companies House WebFiling service is the important service for a company’s authorization code, as it issues a unique 6-character alphanumeric code that acts as an electronic signature for online filings. Companies can also use commercial software to file, but they will still need this code to authorize the submissions. The code is sent via post to the business’s registered office address shortly after incorporation, though companies can also request it be sent to a home address if needed.

A 6-digit alphanumeric code, composed of both numbers and letters, is a critical security feature that enables authorized individuals, such as company directors, to perform vital online operations on behalf of a company. This code serves a similar purpose to that of a digital signature, assuring authentication and integrity when carrying out various official tasks.

With this code, individuals can execute several important functions, including:

1. Filing a Confirmation Statement:
   This document confirms the company’s details, such as the registered office address, details of directors, and share capital, ensuring compliance with legal obligations.
2. Filing Dormant (Non-Trading) Business Accounts:
   For companies that have had no significant transactions during the financial year, this filing keeps them in good standing with regulatory authorities.
3. Submitting a Return of Allotment of Shares:
   This allows for the official recording of any new shares issued by the company, which is essential for maintaining accurate shareholder records.
4. Appointing or Resigning Directors:
   This function enables the company to update its leadership structure promptly, ensuring that all legal requirements are met regarding director appointments and resignations.
5. Appointing or Resigning Secretaries:
   Similar to directors, changes to company secretariat roles must be documented and reported to comply with statutory obligations.
6. Changing the Company’s Registered Office:
   This ensures that all official correspondence is directed to the correct location, which is vital for communication with regulatory bodies.
7. Altering the Company’s Accounting Reference Date:
   Adjusting the accounting reference date can be necessary for various strategic reasons, including managing financial reporting periods.

Given the sensitivity and significance of these changes, it is imperative to treat this code with the utmost care, akin to the security you would apply to your personal PIN number for a bank card.

We strongly advise confiding this code only to trusted personnel within your organization, your accountant, or your company formation agent who are well-versed in handling such confidential information.

In the unfortunate event that your code falls into the wrong hands, it is crucial to act swiftly. Please contact integritycomplaints@companieshouse.gov.uk without delay, providing comprehensive details about the situation to facilitate prompt action in safeguarding your company’s interests.

A WebFiling authentication code serves as a vital tool that grants authorized access to file company information online through the Companies House WebFiling system, or via third-party software filing services provided by company formation agents. To successfully submit significant company details to Companies House, it is imperative to have your WebFiling authentication code, your unique company registration number, and your secure account password at hand.

These online services facilitate a range of essential tasks, including:

1. Filing a Confirmation Statement:
   Previously referred to as an “annual return,” this document confirms the current details of your company and ensures that Companies House has up-to-date information.
2. Updating a Previously Submitted Confirmation Statement:
   If your company’s information changes after submission, you can easily update it through this service.
3. Submitting Annual Accounts:
   This includes the preparation and filing of your company’s annual financial statements, which may also encompass accounts for dormant companies that have had no significant transactions during the financial year.
4. Amending Your Registered Office Address:
   You can promptly inform Companies House if your registered office address changes, ensuring that all correspondence is directed to the correct location.
5. Notifying Companies House about a SAIL Address:
   A Single Alternative Inspection Location (SAIL) address can be recorded if you prefer to keep certain company records at a different location from the registered office.
6. Appointing or Removing Company Officers:
   This service allows you to formally appoint or remove directors and secretaries, reflecting the current management structure of your company.
7. Updating Company Officers’ Details:
   If there are changes to the personal information of your company officers, such as a change of name or address, these can be updated through the portal.

The WebFiling authentication code is not just a simple requirement; it is a crucial security measure designed to safeguard your account and sensitive company information from unauthorized access. Therefore, it is of utmost importance to protect this code and not share it with anyone who does not have permission to access your filing account. By treating the authentication code with care, you help maintain the integrity and security of your company’s official records.

According to the official GOV.UK website, one of the primary benefits of using WebFiling is its ability to save both time and money. By opting for online submissions, users can complete forms much more efficiently than with traditional paper-based methods. The instant transmission of forms eliminates delays associated with mailing and processing, allowing businesses to manage their submissions with greater speed and efficiency.

Moreover, the online filing system minimizes the risk of errors that often lead to form rejections. It features integrated validation checks that automatically identify any inconsistencies or missing information in real time. This means users can quickly correct any issues before submission, significantly reducing the likelihood of their forms being rejected. Additionally, the system retains previously entered data, automatically populating fields such as company details, which eliminates the need for repetitive data entry for recurring filings.

To address and mitigate potential security concerns associated with online submissions, Companies House has introduced a robust security feature known as PROOF (Protected Online Filing). This state-of-the-art system is designed to safeguard sensitive information by preventing unauthorized changes to your details. It requires users to authenticate their identity with two separate codes: one code is delivered via traditional postal mail, while the other is sent through email. This dual-layer verification process ensures that any changes made or forms submitted are conducted securely and with full knowledge of the account holder, providing peace of mind in an increasingly digital landscape.

Locating your company authentication code. If you registered your company directly with Companies House, you should have received an official code sent to the address of your registered office shortly after the incorporation process was completed. This code is typically mailed within a few weeks and is essential for various administrative and compliance tasks related to your company.

On the other hand, if you utilized a company formation agent to establish your business, they often provide an online management platform. This tool allows you to access important documents and information related to your company, including the incorporation code, immediately after your company formation is finalized. Having this code readily available can streamline your access to essential services and ensure compliance with regulatory requirements.

What should I do if I have lost my company authentication code?

If you’ve lost your company authentication code and would like to register to use Coddan, don’t worry! We can help you request a new code. Just click on the Send me my code link during registration, and we will ask Companies House to send a reminder letter to your company’s registered office address. Alternatively, you can request a reminder online via the Companies House WebFiling service. Please note that Companies House currently advises it may take up to 5 days for the reminder letter to arrive.

If you have unfortunately lost your authentication code or if your current service provider is unwilling to supply it, you have two options for retrieval. First, you can conveniently access our secure electronic portal, where you can follow the prompts to recover your code. Alternatively, you may submit a formal request to Companies House to have your authentication code sent to you via postal mail. Please ensure to provide any necessary identification or details to facilitate the retrieval process.

If you have forgotten or misplaced your authentication code, you have the option to request a reminder by logging into your account. After signing in, simply navigate to the authentication code request section and submit your request. We will then send the code or a reminder to you by postal mail to your company’s registered office, which is the address on file with us.

In the event that you are unable to access your company’s registered office address, we offer the option to have your authentication code sent directly to your home address instead. Please keep in mind that the delivery of a new authentication code can take several days. Therefore, we strongly advise you to make this request well ahead of any upcoming important filing dates to ensure that you avoid any potential delays or complications. Your prompt action can help you meet your obligations on time without unnecessary stress.

What if my registered office address is outdated?

If your registered office address is incorrect, it is essential to update it before you can successfully request your authentication code. Please follow these detailed steps to ensure the process goes smoothly:

1. File an AD01 Form:
   Access the Companies House WebFiling service and complete the AD01 form, which is specifically designed for changing your registered office address. Make sure to provide accurate information, as any errors may delay the processing of your request.
2. Processing Time:
   After submitting your AD01 form, the change will typically be processed within 24 to 48 hours. During this time, you may not be able to request your authentication code, so please be patient until you receive confirmation that your address has been updated.
3. Request Your Authentication Code:
   Once you have verified that the address has been updated in the Companies House system, you can proceed to request your authentication code again. This code is necessary for various company filings and changes, so ensure that your address is correct beforehand to avoid any future issues.

By following these steps, you will ensure that your registered office address is accurate and that you can obtain your authentication code without any complications.

Changing your company authentication code.

You have the option to modify your existing authentication code to one that is more memorable for you. However, similar to your bank card PIN, it’s essential to ensure that the new code is sufficiently complex to deter unauthorized access. If you suspect that someone may have learned your current code, it is advisable to change it immediately. Moreover, updating the code is recommended whenever you hire a new accountant or when there are significant changes within your company’s management structure, as this helps maintain security.

The process for changing your company’s authentication code is straightforward and can be completed in a few simple steps:

1. Log in to your Online Account:
   Begin by accessing your secure online account using your current login credentials.
2. Navigate to Company Authentication:
   Once you are signed in, locate and select the Company Authentication option from the menu on the left side of the screen. This section contains all settings related to your authentication code.
3. Enter Your New Code:
   Input your new 6-character code in the designated field. Ensure that the code strikes a balance between being memorable and complex enough to protect your account.
4. Confirm the Change:
   After entering your new code, click the Change Code button to finalize the update.

Upon completion, you will receive a confirmation notification regarding your code change, which will be sent to your registered office address. It is crucial to communicate this change to anyone authorized to file on your behalf to ensure they have the correct code moving forward. Keeping all parties informed will help maintain the integrity of your company’s security measures.

If your company is registered in our system, it is essential to ensure that you update the information accordingly. To accomplish this, please follow these detailed steps:

• Log In:
  Begin by accessing the Coddan CPM admin panel with your username and password.
• Navigate to My Companies:
  Once you are logged in, locate and select the My Companies option from the main dashboard menu. This will take you to a list of all companies associated with your account.
• View Company Details:
  In the list, find your company. You can either click the magnifying glass icon labeled View next to your company’s name or directly click on the company name itself to open its details page.
• Edit Authorization Code:
  On the details page, look for the section labeled Auth. Code. Click the Edit button beside it to initiate the update process.
• Make Necessary Updates:
  Input the required changes to the authorization code as needed. Ensure that all information is accurate and up-to-date.

Please remember that completing these steps will update the authorization code stored in our system. However, this action will not alter the actual code itself. To change the actual code, you must follow the procedures outlined at the beginning of this section. If you have any questions during this process, do not hesitate to reach out for assistance.

Companies House will verify the code change and send a formal letter to your company’s registered office address. It is essential to notify any individuals who are authorized to file documents on your behalf—such as employees, accountants, or company secretaries—about the updated authentication code. This ensures they are aware of the change and can continue to manage filings accurately.

For those using Coddan CPM, it is crucial to update your company details section with the new authentication code to maintain compliance and prevent any disruptions in your company’s filing capabilities. To do this, navigate to the Company tab in the interface, then select Edit filing details. Here, you can input your new company authentication code. Make sure to click Save changes to confirm the update, ensuring that all future filings are processed smoothly with the correct information.

Why might I change my company authentication code?

There are several compelling reasons for considering a change to your company authentication code:

1. Memorability:
   You might want to select a code that is easier to remember, thereby reducing the likelihood of errors when entering it.
2. Consistency Across Companies:
   Utilizing the same authentication code for all companies within a corporate group can streamline processes and create a cohesive approach to management.
3. Simplified Management:
   If you oversee multiple limited companies, adopting a standard authentication code for all of them can facilitate easier management and oversight, minimizing confusion.
4. Security Concerns:
   If you suspect that someone without proper authorization may have obtained your current authentication code, it is essential to change it immediately to prevent unauthorized access.
5. Employee Departures:
   When an employee, accountant, or legal advisor who was previously authorized to use the code leaves the company, changing the code can help protect sensitive information and ensure that only current personnel have access.

Remember, Companies House will never reach out to you directly to request your WebFiling authentication code. If you receive a message or phone call from someone claiming to be a representative of Companies House asking for this information, or if you have concerns that someone has gained unauthorized access to your code, it is crucial to alert the Companies House fraud team without delay.

Additionally, you have the option to access the WebFiling system and cancel your company authentication code. Once you do so, the code will be automatically deactivated by the next working day or on a specific date of your choosing.

Coddan CPM ensures that your company authentication code is stored securely. Access to this information is restricted solely to users who have been granted Administrator privileges within the system, safeguarding your company’s sensitive data.

Why has Companies House changed my company authentication code?

Companies House will automatically change your authentication code if correspondence sent to your company’s registered office address is repeatedly returned or if your code is entered incorrectly three times.

There are several reasons why your access code may have changed. One possibility is that your code was compromised, potentially due to unauthorized access or security breaches. Alternatively, a new officer may have been appointed within your organization, leading to an update of the access code for security reasons.

If Companies House consistently receives returned correspondence addressed to your company’s registered office, this could raise concerns about the accuracy of your official details. In response, Companies House may take proactive measures to change your access code in order to safeguard against unauthorized access to your company’s information. It’s essential to regularly verify your registered details to ensure they are up-to-date and secure.

Why is my company authentication code not unique?

Since you can create your own authentication code, it’s possible that other companies may have the same code without you knowing. However, this typically does not pose a problem or a security breach. Only registered presenters are allowed to submit electronic forms to Companies House. It is the combination of the registered presenter’s ID, your unique company number, and the authentication code that authorizes any changes to be made.

Follow your company. Follow is a useful tool that allows you to receive timely email alerts regarding transactions and filings related to specific companies. These alerts notify you instantly whenever a new document has been filed and accepted by the relevant authorities. Each email notification contains a direct link to the company’s filing history, where you can conveniently access and download a copy of the document at no cost.

To begin following companies, please take the following steps:

• Sign in to your account using your credentials.
• Utilize the search function to find the specific company you wish to follow. You can enter the company name or other relevant details to refine your search.
• Once you locate the desired company, click on its name to access its profile.
• On the company profile page, you will see the option to “Follow this company.” Click on this button to start receiving alerts.

To keep track of all the companies you’re following, simply navigate to the section labeled “Companies you follow.” Here, you’ll find a comprehensive list of all the companies you have selected for notifications. If, at any point, you decide that you no longer wish to receive alerts for a particular company, you can easily choose the “Unfollow” option to stop notifications.

By utilizing this feature, you can stay informed about important filings and ensure that you have access to the latest information regarding your chosen companies.

Companies House PROOF is a complimentary service specifically designed to safeguard limited companies against corporate identity theft. This service mandates that critical changes—such as the appointment of directors and modifications to the registered office address—be submitted electronically using a unique company authentication code. By enrolling in Companies House PROOF, companies can significantly bolster their security measures, thereby reducing the risk of unauthorized or fraudulent paper filings. This proactive approach helps ensure that only verified and legitimate changes are made to a company’s official records, providing peace of mind for business owners and stakeholders alike.

Corporate identity theft poses a significant threat to limited companies. A single fraudulent paper form can lead to harmful alterations within a company. For instance, existing directors can be resigned, and new directors can be appointed. Additionally, the registered office address can be changed, and even the company name can be altered.

If you are worried about corporate identity theft, the free PROOF service offered by Companies House may be worth considering. What documents are exclusively accepted online when I register for Companies House PROOF? If you sign up for Companies House PROOF, the following documents must be submitted online only:

1. AD01: Change of Registered Office Address:
   This form is used to officially change the address of your company’s registered office, which must be a physical location in the UK.
2. NM01: Change of Company Name:
   Use this document to legally change your company’s name. It’s essential to ensure that the new name complies with the regulations set by Companies House.
3. AP01: Appointment of Director:
   This form is required when appointing a new director to your company. It provides the necessary details about the new director, including their personal information and consent to act.
4. CH01: Change of Director’s Details:
   This document is needed to update any changes to a current director’s information, such as their name or address.
5. TM01 Termination of Appointment of Director:
   Use this form to formally terminate a director’s appointment within the company structure.

If you started your company with 1st Formations and choose to enroll in PROOF, you will also have the benefit of continuing to utilize our Online Company Manager for effective management of your company’s documentation and compliance needs.

All company formation agents in the UK that assist with registering your business with Companies House will provide you with a unique WebFiling Authentication Code. This code is essential for managing your company’s records online, allowing you to file documents and make necessary updates efficiently. It’s important to keep this code secure, as it grants access to sensitive information regarding your company’s status and filings. After your company is formed, you can find the code by logging into your account on the formation agent’s portal or the Companies House website and navigating to the section for your company’s information.

The Authorised Corporate Service Provider (ACSP) scheme represents a transformative development in the regulation of company formation and corporate filing services within the United Kingdom. This initiative aims to establish a more secure and trustworthy business environment by introducing a comprehensive set of responsibilities for service providers while enhancing overall transparency and credibility in the corporate sector.

Before your accountant can submit any tax-related information to HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC), they need to obtain agent clearance. This process has evolved from being entirely paper-based to an efficient online method. To initiate this, HMRC will send you a unique code through the post. It is crucial that you provide this code to your accountant, as they will use it to confirm online that you have given your consent for them to represent you in dealings with HMRC.

When setting up a new UK limited company, you will receive two separate and crucial codes in the post: a Unique Taxpayer Reference (UTR) from HMRC and an authentication code from Companies House. HMRC is automatically notified when your company is incorporated by Companies House. They will then post the UTR to your company’s registered office address, typically within 14 days of incorporation.

It’s important to note that you will require a different code for each type of tax managed by HMRC, including Pay As You Earn (PAYE), self-assessment tax, corporation tax, and Value Added Tax (VAT). The requirement for separate codes reflects the distinct nature of each tax obligation and ensures proper authorization for your accountant to act on your behalf for each specific area.

If you have any uncertainties regarding the codes or the submission process, it is advisable to consult directly with your accountant, who can provide clear and detailed guidance tailored to your specific situation.