Fee increases from February: How will Companies House’s changes impact your business?

From 1 February 2026, Companies House will be increasing the annual filing fee for current businesses and the incorporation of businesses fee for new registrars, meaning you will need to plan accordingly.

These changes are in place to support Companies House as they look to enhance their services, but that comes at a cost to your business, so it’s important you understand the changes and speak with professionals if you need advice and support.

What are the fee changes and how will they affect my business?

Companies House has confirmed the annual filing fee will increase for both digital and physical submissions from February 2026.

For digital submissions, the fee will rise from £34 to £50, while the physical submission fee will increase to £110, up from £62.

Your business will see an instant increase in costs moving forward. You need to consider the increase when putting your financial plans in place, as this will help you budget for those changes and ensure you can still achieve your business goals.

Failing to plan leaves you in a position where you could face a large fine and sanctions imposed on you and your business.

In addition to this, you may have noticed that the increase in physical submission fees is much sharper. This is because Companies House wants individuals to submit information digitally because it is reliable and it’s faster.

It is much more cost-efficient for your business to submit information digitally and if you are doing it physically, you may need to review your processes because you will feel the financial effect more.

Utilising digital software will benefit your business and save you time to focus on other areas. It allows you to complete your legal and compliance obligations and not miss deadlines.

What changes are coming for new registers?

For new businesses, the incorporation digital filing fee will increase from £50 to £100, while the confirmation statement digital filing fee will rise from £34 to £50.

All entities, from private limited companies to LLPs, charitable companies to overseas entities, will be required to pay the new fee when the changes take effect.

Like with physical annual filing fees, any incorporation of a business that is completed in a physical way will also see a sharp rise in fees. It will increase to £124, up from £71.  The

However, not all costs will increase from February, with Companies House confirming the voluntary strike off digital filing fee will drop to £13 and the physical filing fee will reduce to £18.

What are the factors behind Companies House’s decision to increase fees?

The fee increases are going to be used in two main areas. The first is helping Companies House support its plans to improve its technology and services.

The other reason for the fee increases is to help and support the Insolvency Service in completing its obligations. They are responsible for completing investigations and carrying out the required enforcement action.

They are responsible for winding up companies, disqualifying directors and prosecuting those involved in fraudulent activities when an investigation finds evidence of wrongdoing or inaccuracies.

Is Companies House planning further reform?

The fee changes coming in February will build on the increased powers given to Companies House under the Economic Crime and Corporate Transparency Act 2023.

A big change taking effect on 18 November is the introduction of mandatory ID verification checks for business owners, directors and persons of significant control.

It is important to note that existing individuals registered on Companies House have a 12-month window to ensure they have completed a digital ID verification check, which closes on 18 November 2026.

However, new registrations through Companies House will have to follow the new process and complete an ID verification check when the law officially takes effect.

These mandatory ID checks must be done through the Gov.uk One Login gateway or by use of an Authorised Corporate Service Provider (ACSP).

If you are unsure about how the process will work, you can speak with an expert set of accountants, who can help you collate the information needed and explain why it is a legal obligation.

Need help understanding the changes from Companies House?

Our expert team of accountants is here to support you if you are concerned about the new changes. We can discuss the changes with you and help you plan to mitigate the financial costs and feel comfortable with your responsibilities.

Get in touch with our team for expert financial advice and support.