Change of Company Name in the UK

If you wish to change the name of your company we can supply a special resolution for the Directors to sign and submit all the relevant paperwork to Companies House.

The change of name takes approximately 3 days to complete once we have received the signed resolution, after which we will send you the Change of Name Certificate.

The company must pass a special resolution in a general meeting, or all the members must sign a written resolution that the name of the company be changed to the new name. A special resolution is a resolution passed at a general meeting of the company by 75% of those members entitled to vote.

Companies House will then process the resolution and issue a Certificate of Incorporation on Change of Name. The name of the company is not changed until the new certificate is issued.

Change of Company Name

For full information see Company Names

How do I change my company’s name?

  • Your company must pass a special resolution at a general meeting; or
  • All the members must sign a written resolution that the name of the company be changed to the new name.
  • A signed copy of the resolution(s) should then be sent to Companies House, together with the fee (currently £10).

A copy of the amended memorandum and articles must also be sent in at the same time as the change of name resolution(s).

What is a special resolution?

A special resolution is a resolution passed at a general meeting of the company by 75% of those members entitled to vote. (An ordinary resolution would pass with 51% of those entitled to vote voting in favour.)

What is a written resolution?

A written resolution is a resolution unanimously passed by the members of the company. All the members should sign and date the documents.

How long does it take?

If all the documents are correct, the change of name will normally be processed within five working days from receipt at Companies House.

Can a company in liquidation change its name?

Yes, but a letter of consent from the liquidator must be presented with the resolution.

To Avoid Delays

Please complete your special resolution preferably in black type, or bold black manuscript lettering, using A4 paper (80-100gsm2) because your document will be electronically scanned. The full requirements are contained in our guidance Directors and Secretaries

Does the name contain a sensitive word or expression?