What is a Companies House Authentication Code?
A Companies House authentication code is a unique 6-character alphanumeric code that acts as the online equivalent of a company director’s signature. It is required to file documents and make changes to your company information through the Companies House WebFiling service.
Without this code, you won’t be able to submit your company’s confirmation statement, annual accounts, or make updates to directors, addresses, or shareholding details.
Why Do You Need a Company Authentication Code?
The company authentication code is essential for ensuring that only authorised individuals can make changes to a company’s records at Companies House. Think of it as a password that grants access to your business’s official records.
If you are a limited company director, you’ll need this code for tasks such as:
- Filing your confirmation statement
- Updating your company’s registered office
- Changing director details
- Submitting company accounts
- Closing your company (dissolution)
How to Request a Companies House Authentication Code
If you’ve never received your authentication code or have misplaced it, you will need to request an authentication code from Companies House.
Steps to Request an Authentication Code from Companies House
- Go to the Companies House WebFiling service.
- Click on “Request an authentication code”.
- Enter your company registration number.
- The code will be sent to your company’s registered office address by post within 5 working days.
If your registered office address is outdated, update it before requesting your code to avoid delays.
How to Find Your Company Authentication Code
If you already have a Companies House authentication code but can’t locate it, check:
- Your company’s registered email inbox (if previously received electronically).
- Any letters from Companies House to your registered office.
- Your online account if you saved it.
If you still can’t find it, you will need to request Companies House authentication code again.
How to Change Your Companies House Authentication Code
If you believe your authentication code has been compromised, you can change it by:
- Logging into Companies House WebFiling.
- Selecting “Change authentication code”.
- Following the on-screen instructions.
- Receiving a new authentication code by post.
For security reasons, this process cannot be completed online, and the new code will always be sent to your registered office address.
What to Do If You Lost Your Authentication Code
Losing your company authentication code is common. If you can’t find it, you’ll need to request an authentication code to your registered office by following the steps above.
Unfortunately, Companies House does not allow authentication codes to be sent via email or phone for security reasons.
What If My Registered Office Address Is Outdated?
If your registered office address is incorrect, update it before requesting your authentication code:
- File an AD01 form via Companies House WebFiling.
- Wait for the change to be processed (usually within 24-48 hours).
- Once updated, request your authentication code again.
FAQ: Companies House Authentication Code
What is a company authentication code?
A company authentication code is a 6-character code that allows you to access and update your company’s records at Companies House.
How do I get my company authentication code?
You can request an authentication code from Companies House by using their WebFiling service. It will be sent to your registered office address.
How long does it take to request Companies House authentication code?
It usually takes 5 working days for Companies House to send the code by post.
Can I request an authentication code via email?
No, Companies House only sends authentication codes via post for security reasons.
What should I do if my authentication code is lost?
You should request the Companies House authentication code again through WebFiling.
Where can I find my company authentication code?
Check your company’s registered office mail, emails, or any previous Companies House documents.
Can I change my authentication code?
Yes, but you will need to request a new authentication code through Companies House WebFiling, and it will be sent to your registered office.
What if I never received my Companies House authentication code request?
Double-check your registered office address. If it’s incorrect, update it before requesting the code again.
Conclusion
At eAccounts, we help businesses like yours manage their Companies House filings with ease. Whether you need help with your company authentication code request, filing annual accounts, or tax returns, our expert accountants are here to assist.
Need help with your authentication code request? Contact eAccounts today!
