The UK business landscape is preparing for a notable shift as Companies House fees are set to change from 1 February 2026. For business owners, accountants, and company secretaries, these changes represent more than just a new pricing structure, they signal a broader transformation in the way UK company law is enforced and supported.
Backed by new legislative powers and a commitment to enhancing corporate transparency, Companies House aims to reinforce its role as a guardian of business integrity.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore why these changes are taking place, what the new fee structure looks like, how it will affect new and existing companies, and what it means for the future of doing business in the UK. Let’s dive in.
Why Are Companies House Fees Changing In 2026?
Companies House has confirmed that, starting 1 February 2026, several of its statutory fees will be adjusted. This annual review process ensures that fees remain proportionate to the cost of delivering the services offered, aligning with the organisation’s growing responsibilities.
The introduction of the Economic Crime and Corporate Transparency (ECCT) Act has significantly expanded the scope of Companies House.
With new powers to verify identities, remove inaccurate information, and increase corporate accountability, the agency requires sustainable funding to enforce these reforms effectively.
These fee changes are designed not just to cover operational costs, but to support a strategic transformation into a more robust, digital-first regulatory body capable of safeguarding the UK economy from fraud, financial mismanagement, and criminal exploitation.
What Are the Key Changes to Companies House Fees From 1 February 2026?
The fee revisions affect several critical services that UK businesses interact with regularly. These include the cost of company formation, the annual confirmation statement, and the voluntary strike-off process. Below is a summary of the updated charges.
Summary of Key Companies House Fee Changes (Digital Filing)
| Service | Current Fee (2025) | New Fee (from 1 Feb 2026) |
| Incorporation (Digital) | £50 | £100 |
| Confirmation Statement (Digital) | £34 | £50 |
| Voluntary Strike Off (Digital) | £33 | £13 |
These changes mark a considerable shift, particularly for incorporation and confirmation filings, which are mandatory touchpoints for all companies.
It’s worth noting that while some fees are increasing, the cost of voluntary strike-off, a service used to close a company, has been significantly reduced, potentially to encourage proper deregistration of dormant or non-compliant entities.
Cost Difference Breakdown (Digital Services)
| Service | Fee Increase / Decrease |
| Incorporation | +£50 |
| Confirmation Statement | +£16 |
| Voluntary Strike Off | -£20 |
The increase in incorporation and confirmation statement fees reflects not only inflationary adjustments but also the need to fund enhanced identity verification, fraud prevention, and enforcement activities.
How will the Companies House Fee Changes Affect Both New and Existing UK Businesses?
The upcoming Companies House fee changes will impact both new and existing UK businesses. While the updates aim to enhance transparency and security, they also bring slight cost adjustments that companies should prepare for.
| Business Type | Fee Change | Old Fee | New Fee (1 Feb 2026) | Impact |
| New Businesses | Incorporation (digital) | £50 | £100 | One-time rise; supports fraud prevention and secure registration. |
| Existing Businesses | Confirmation statement | £34 | £50 | Small annual increase; improves data accuracy and oversight. |
| Closing Businesses | Voluntary strike-off | £33 | £13 | Lower fee encourages proper company closure. |
Overall, these changes balance modest cost increases with stronger trust and efficiency across the UK business register.
How Are the New Fees Supporting Companies House Reforms?
The changes to Companies House fees are not occurring in isolation. They are an essential part of a larger strategy aimed at modernising and strengthening the UK’s corporate regulatory environment.
Funding Enhanced Identity Verification
From 18 November 2025, identity verification will become mandatory for directors, persons with significant control (PSCs), and those filing on behalf of companies.
This reform is intended to ensure that individuals involved in UK companies are who they claim to be, thereby reducing the risk of fraudulent activity. The fee changes will help fund the infrastructure and staffing required to implement this verification at scale.
Supporting Enforcement Through the Insolvency Service
Part of the income from Companies House fees will fund enforcement work by the Insolvency Service, ensuring stronger accountability across UK businesses.
Key Enforcement Actions
- Disqualifying unfit directors who breach company law.
- Winding up rogue companies involved in misconduct.
- Taking legal action against financial wrongdoing.
This funding helps the UK tackle economic crime, improve transparency, and build trust in its corporate system.
Improving Data Quality and Transparency
Accurate and trustworthy data is central to a well-functioning business environment. Companies House will use its updated powers to query and remove false or misleading information, improving the integrity of the public register.
The fee structure helps facilitate these proactive measures by ensuring resources are available to monitor, audit, and rectify company records when needed.
What Should UK Business Owners Do to Prepare for the Changes?
With the upcoming Companies House fee changes, UK business owners should take proactive steps to stay compliant and minimise disruption. Preparing early ensures smoother operations and avoids last-minute complications.
Key Steps to Prepare:
- Understand the Timeline: New fees apply from 1 February 2026; filings before this date follow current rates.
- Review Filing Schedules and Budgets: Update your financial plans to include new costs, especially if managing multiple entities.
- Plan Early Filings: Submit documents ahead of the deadline to benefit from lower existing fees.
- Stay Informed: Subscribe to Companies House updates to track announcements and official guidance.
- Seek Professional Advice: Consult accountants or legal experts for tailored compliance strategies.
Taking these actions now will help businesses adjust seamlessly once the new fees come into effect.
How Does the UK Compare Internationally in Terms of Company Registration Fees?
Although the UK is increasing its fees, they remain low by international standards. In fact, one of the consistent advantages of forming a company in the UK has been its affordability, especially when compared to jurisdictions such as the United States, Australia, or various European countries.
International Comparison Table:
| Country | Incorporation Fee (Approx.) | Annual Compliance Cost |
| United Kingdom | £100 (from Feb 2026) | £50 confirmation statement |
| United States | $100–$500 (varies by state) | $50–$800+ annual filing fees |
| Australia | AUD $538 | Varies by business structure |
| Germany | €300–€600 | Notary and registry fees apply |
This comparative affordability continues to make the UK an attractive destination for entrepreneurs, especially when paired with its transparent corporate governance structures and access to international markets.
What Do These Fee Changes Mean for the Future of Doing Business in the UK?
The changes to Companies House fees are not merely administrative updates, they signal a strategic transformation in how the UK manages corporate transparency and compliance.
The enhanced verification measures, improved data reliability, and stronger enforcement will collectively elevate the quality of information available in the marketplace.
In the long run, these updates will contribute to a safer, fairer, and more competitive business environment. They represent the government’s ongoing effort to maintain the UK as a premier destination for ethical entrepreneurship and responsible investment.
Conclusion
The changes to Companies House fees from 1 February 2026 represent more than just revised charges, they reflect a wider commitment to integrity, security, and efficiency in the UK’s business framework.
While fees for incorporation and confirmation statements are rising, they directly contribute to improved data quality, stronger enforcement against misconduct, and a safer business environment for all.
For UK entrepreneurs and business owners, understanding these updates and preparing accordingly will ensure continued compliance and confidence as the UK moves towards a more transparent and trustworthy corporate landscape.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Economic Crime and Corporate Transparency Act and how does it relate to fee changes?
The Act expands Companies House’s powers to verify identities, investigate suspicious information, and enforce compliance. The fee changes help fund these new responsibilities.
Will paper filing fees also change in 2026?
Yes, paper filing fees will also be reviewed and updated to reflect the higher processing costs compared with digital submissions.
Are there any exemptions or discounted rates for small businesses or charities?
Currently, Companies House does not provide fee exemptions based on business size or type, though all fees are reviewed annually for fairness.
Can fees be refunded if a filing is rejected or cancelled?
Refunds are typically not issued once a filing has been processed, unless the error occurred due to Companies House oversight.
How do the changes affect dormant companies or companies limited by guarantee?
These entities will still need to submit confirmation statements and other filings, subject to the new fee rates.
Is the identity verification process linked to the new fee structure?
Yes, the new fee income supports the rollout and maintenance of the digital identity verification system introduced in late 2025.
What penalties might businesses face if they fail to comply after 1 February 2026?
Failure to comply with filing or verification requirements could lead to penalties, removal from the register, or director disqualification.
