How to Legally Change Your Company Name in the UK: A Guide for Businesses

Thinking about giving your business a fresh start with a new company name? Whether you’ve outgrown your original brand, pivoted your offering, or just fancy a new direction, changing the name of your company is a big step. It’s also a legal process that comes with several boxes to tick - but don’t worry, it’s very doable when you know the right steps to follow.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything UK businesses need to know about how to legally change the name from company. If you’re feeling a bit daunted by compliance, notifications, and Companies House forms, just keep reading - we’ll break it down into clear, manageable steps to keep your business protected from day one.

Why Change Your Company Name?

First things first: why do businesses decide to change their name from company? There are lots of common reasons, such as:

• Rebranding to reach a different market or refresh your image
• Expanding services or entering new sectors
• Disassociating from previous owners or changing the company’s purpose
• Legal requirements (for example, where trademarks are disputed)
• Mergers or acquisitions leading to a new group name

Whatever your motivation, remember: your company name is a key legal identifier and part of your brand, so making this change the right way is crucial.

Can Any UK Company Change Its Name?

Yes - the vast majority of registered companies in the UK can change their name from company. This includes private limited companies (Ltd), public limited companies (PLC), and companies limited by guarantee. However, the way you make this change depends on your current company structure and your company’s articles of association. It’s always wise to double-check your rules and shareholder agreements before you start the process.

What Legal Steps Are Involved in Changing a Company Name?

Changing the name from company involves both internal approvals and formal registration with Companies House. Here’s a step-by-step rundown of the process:

1. Check Your Current Articles of Association

Before doing anything, you’ll need to review your articles of association (the rulebook for your business). Most UK companies follow the model articles, but bespoke versions may set out extra steps or restrictions around company name changes. Check for:

• Whether directors can approve a name change or if a shareholder resolution is needed
• Any veto or special approval rights

If you’re not sure what your articles say - or you’ve lost track along the way - it’s a smart idea to consult a legal expert or get your articles reviewed.

2. Get Approval from Shareholders or Directors

By UK law (Companies Act 2006), company name changes usually require a special resolution passed by the shareholders. This means:

• At least 75% of voting shareholders must agree (either at a general meeting or via written resolution)
• If your articles allow, directors may be empowered to approve the change instead

Document the approval carefully, keeping a record of the meeting and any resolutions passed. You’ll need this to update Companies House.

3. Choose Your New Name - And Make Sure It’s Available

This might sound obvious, but you can’t just pick any name! Your new company name must:

• Not be identical or too similar to an existing registered name
• Not contain any sensitive expressions without the required permission (e.g. “Royal”, “Bank” etc.)
• Comply with Companies House naming rules

To check whether your intended name from company is available, use the Companies House online search tool and do a web search for possible conflicts or similar brands. Also, consider trademark protection if your rebrand involves a full brand overhaul.

4. File the Correct Form with Companies House

Once you’ve got approval and checked the name, it’s time for official registration. You’ll need to submit:

• Form NM01 - Change of company name by resolution (for most companies)
• A copy of the resolution approving the change
• The required fee (online or by post, currently £8 online/£10 by post)

This process has been streamlined in recent years, and you can submit your application online or by post. If your articles have unique rules or you’re unsure which form to use, professional advice can save you headaches.

5. Wait for Approval and Receive Your New Certificate of Incorporation

Companies House typically updates names within 24 hours when filed online, though allow a couple of days for processing. You’ll receive a new Certificate of Incorporation on Change of Name - hold onto this as official evidence of your company’s new identity.

6. Update Statutory Registers and Company Records

It’s important (and legally required) to update:

• Your statutory registers and minute books
• Companies House entries (address, officers, shares etc. remain unchanged, but your name changes across all official records)
• Any company seals or formal documentation reflecting the company’s old name

What Else Needs to Be Updated When You Change Your Company Name?

Changing your company’s name goes beyond Companies House. You must also update:

• HMRC: Update PAYE, VAT, corporation tax, and any other registrations
• Banks: Change account names, cheque books, and payment mandates
• Contracts and Invoices: Notify customers, suppliers, landlords, and partners - consider contract amendments if required
• Employees: Update HR records and employment contracts
• Insurance Policies: Notify your insurer and update certificates
• Trading Licences and Permits: Inform regulators, licensing bodies, and local authorities
• Website and Marketing Materials: Update email footers, websites, signage, and branded content
• Data Protection Registration: If you’re registered with the ICO, update your entry using their data protection fee checker

For some updates, a copy of your new certificate will be required. Don’t leave gaps - not notifying key partners can cause confusion or even put contracts at risk.

What Legal Risks Should I Watch Out For?

Changing your company name is a legal process - and there are a few common pitfalls to avoid:

• Unnotified parties: Failing to tell a supplier, customer or landlord could mean they refuse to recognise your contracts or payments
• Confused branding: Forgetting to update branding or operating different names in different places can erode trust or cause regulatory issues
• Intellectual property clashes: A new name might accidentally infringe on an existing trademark. Always check IP registers before announcing!
• Outdated legal docs: Legal documents with your old name may need amendments or addendums to remain valid
• Incorrect filings: Incorrect or incomplete submissions to Companies House can delay your change and might incur penalties for non-compliance

Setting up your legal compliance and clear communication from day one will help your business sidestep these issues.

Does Changing My Company Name Impact Its Legal Status?

No - when you change the name from company, your business continues as before. Your company number stays the same, and all statutory rights, obligations and liabilities continue uninterrupted. This means:

• You don’t need to reapply for existing licences or registrations, simply update them
• Contracts (unless specifically tied to your previous name in a unique way) still stand, though you may need to formally notify the other party or record an amendment
• Your company’s history, credit file, and legal standing all remain intact

Think of it as updating your ID - you’re still “you,” but with a fresh new look!

What’s the Difference Between a Company Name and a Trading Name?

This is a common source of confusion! Your registered company name is the one on Companies House and your official legal identifier. A trading name (“Trading As” or “T/A”) is any other name your business uses in the marketplace, such as for branding or customer-facing activities.

If you only want to operate under a new trading name but keep your Companies House name unchanged, you don’t need to go through the company name change process - but you must still comply with rules about displaying your legal company name on invoices, websites, and notices.

However, if you want contracts, bank accounts, and all official documents in the new name, you will need to follow the legal route outlined here.

Do I Need to Protect My New Name With a Trade Mark?

While registering your new name from company at Companies House prevents others registering the same name, it doesn’t necessarily protect you from brand hijacking or copycats. If your rebrand is central to your business identity, it’s wise to consider applying for a trade mark for extra protection. This covers your logo, slogan, and other key identifiers alongside your name.

Looking for more on trade mark protection? Explore Sprintlaw’s complete guide to trade marks.

How Much Does It Cost to Change a Company Name?

Good news - this isn’t an expensive process. The Companies House filing fee is currently:

• £8 if submitted online
• £10 if submitted by post

If you need a new set of articles of association at the same time or professional advice, these come at additional cost. However, most small businesses can manage the registration for less than £20 (not including legal or rebranding costs).

Can I Change My Company Name and Structure at the Same Time?

Yes, but they’re separate legal processes. If you’re considering a move from sole trader to limited company, or restructuring to a group, you’ll need to formally register those changes as well. If you’re considering a restructure, read our detailed guide on changing your business structure in the UK, or get in touch for tailored advice.

How Long Does It Take to Change a Company Name?

Once everything is in place:

• Online filings are usually processed within 24 hours
• Postal filings may take several days to a week

However, allow extra time to notify HMRC, update licenses, inform suppliers, and rebrand your assets. Give yourself a realistic schedule - a well-managed change is much smoother for everyone involved.

Should I Get Legal Advice Before Changing My Company Name?

If your company has:

• Complex shareholder arrangements
• Multiple brands or extensive contracts
• Custom articles of association
• Potential intellectual property risks

…it’s wise to consult a corporate lawyer before making the switch. Getting the process right means you avoid costly disputes, delays or compliance slips as your business moves forward.

You should also consider professional help to review the required resolutions and ensure filings are made correctly.

Key Takeaways

• You can legally change the name from company at any time - but you must follow the correct approval and registration process with Companies House.
• Always check your articles of association and get the required shareholder or director approval before filing your application.
• Update all regulatory bodies, banks, clients, suppliers, contracts, and marketing materials to reflect your new name.
• Your company’s legal status and company number remain unchanged with a name change, but be sure all documents and records are updated promptly.
• Consider registering your new name as a trade mark for enhanced brand protection, especially if you’re rebranding or expanding.
• Don’t let legal compliance trip you up - seek expert support, especially if your company has complex structures or contracts.

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If you’d like tailored guidance on changing your company name - or need help with legal documents, filings, or rebranding - reach our friendly experts at team@sprintlaw.co.uk or call 08081347754 for a free, no-obligations chat. We’re here to support your next chapter, every step of the way.