Business owners need to be aware of their new responsibilities and at LWA, we’ve broken down the most important updates to help you stay compliant and ahead of the game.
New requirements for business postal address and email addresses
As of 4th March 2024, all companies must have an “appropriate address” as their registered office at all times. This means it must be a physical address where documents can be delivered and acknowledged — not a PO box.
Another new requirement is the need to provide a registered email address to Companies House. This must be kept up to date, just like your registered office, as it will be the primary channel for official notices and reminders. Failure to comply could result in enforcement action against both the company and its officers.
Prepare for new financial penalties from HMRC
From October 2024, Companies House has had the power to impose direct financial penalties for non-compliance, including late filing of confirmation statements or failure to keep company details updated.
More financial penalties are expected to be rolled out as further reforms come into force. This is a significant shift, and businesses should take this as a timely reminder to review their filing schedules and sign up for automated reminders where possible.
Identity verification is on the way
One of the most fundamental changes coming soon is the introduction of compulsory identity verification. Anyone who sets up, runs, owns, or controls a UK company will need to verify their identity either through GOV.UK One Login or via an Authorised Corporate Service Provider (ACSP).
This applies to all directors and persons with significant control (PSCs), and mismatches between Companies House records and ID documents could delay verification. We recommend checking your current company details and updating any incorrect information well in advance.
Not complying with identity verification rules will become a criminal offence — and may block you from making filings or even forming a new company.
What are Authorised Corporate Service Providers (ACSPs)?
Third-party professionals such as accountants and agents can apply to become an ACSP to handle identity verification on behalf of clients.
To qualify, ACSPs must be supervised by a UK-based Anti-Money Laundering (AML) body. This ensures that identity checks are carried out responsibly and in line with existing regulations.
We’re monitoring these changes closely at LWA, and our team is on hand to support clients with the verification process or to become registered ACSPs themselves.
Companies House online filing service to close
Another major reform will be the closure of the joint online filing service for Company Tax Returns and Companies House accounts by 31st March 2026. HMRC and Companies House are moving toward software-only filing over the next two to three years.
A 21-month notice period is expected before the transition becomes mandatory, but many companies are encouraged to switch to compliant accounting software now. There is already a published list of HMRC-recognised software providers to help you make the move.
This also means that older systems and manual methods will gradually be phased out — so now is the time to invest in your digital filing processes.
LWA are here to help you stay compliant
With so many changes already in effect and more on the way, it’s vital to keep informed. Visit the Changes to UK company law hub on GOV.UK and sign up to Companies House email alerts.
Alternatively, LWA clients can contact us directly. We’re here to ensure you’re not only compliant, but also well-prepared to deal with the regulatory changes. You can contact us on 0161 905 1801 in our South Manchester office, or 01925 830 830 for our Warrington team. You can also reach our team via email to mail@lwaltd.com.