The steps
- Check the new name is available — it can’t be the same as, or too like, an existing company’s, and can’t use restricted words without permission
- Pass a special resolution (75% of shareholders) — or follow any other method your articles allow
- File form NM01 with Companies House and pay the fee
- Receive the new certificate of incorporation on change of name — the change takes effect when Companies House issues it
Your company number doesn't change
This trips people up: changing the name does not create a new company. The registration number stays identical, and the company remains the same legal entity — so contracts, the bank account, credit history and filing record all carry on seamlessly. You’re relabelling the same company, not starting again.
After the change — update everywhere
- HMRC — Corporation Tax, VAT and PAYE records
- Bank, insurers and lenders
- Website, email, invoices and stationery — you must show the correct registered name on business correspondence
- Contracts and suppliers
- Domain and social handles, if the brand is changing too
Miss one and you can end up with mismatched records — the same NAP-consistency issue that matters for search and for banks.
We'll do it and give you the checklist
We prepare the resolution, file the NM01, sort the HMRC side and hand you a tidy list of everyone else to tell — so nothing gets left on the old name. Call 0114 327 1480.