If you’re a business owner in the UK, managing company filings with Companies House is part of your annual responsibilities. 

To do this securely, you’ll need an authentication code — a unique passcode that acts as a digital signature for your business. This code is crucial, as it enables you to file essential documents, such as confirmation statements, accounts, and updates to company details. 

A guide on authentication codes for Limited businesses

Here’s what you need to know about requesting your authentication code on Companies House and keeping it secure.

What is the Companies House authentication code?

The authentication code is a six-character alphanumeric passcode assigned to each UK company registered with Companies House. Think of it as the online equivalent of a director’s signature; it authorises you to submit documents on behalf of the company.

This code is essential for:

• Filing statutory documents online, such as confirmation statements and accounts.
• Updating company details, including address or director information.
• Confirming the legitimacy of filings made on your company’s behalf.

Without your authentication code, you’ll be unable to complete these tasks online, which can lead to fines or penalties for late submissions.

{{ltd-guide}}

How to request your authentication code

If you’ve misplaced your authentication code or haven’t received one yet, you can easily request it from Companies House. 

Please note though that Company House will only send a code via post. They will never send it by email or tell you over the phone. 

So make sure that you don’t wait until your accounts are due before requesting an authentication code from Company’s House as delivery takes up to five days to arrive. But during peak times, it can take even longer. 

Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to request it:

1. Log into your Companies House account: 

Head to the Companies House WebFiling portal, and log in to your account with your email and password. If you’re new to the system, you’ll need to set up a WebFiling account first.

2. Go to ‘Request an authentication code’: 

Once logged in, navigate to the section for requesting an authentication code. You’ll need your company’s unique Company Number (which can be found on your incorporation documents or by searching the public Companies House database).

3. Confirm your request: 

Confirm that you want to request a new authentication code. Companies House will then generate a code and send it to your registered office address.

4. Wait for the code to arrive by post:

Companies House only sends authentication codes by post for security reasons. This usually takes 3 to 5 working days, though it may take longer during busy periods.

Important: Keep your authentication code safe

Once you receive your authentication code, store it securely. Avoid sharing it unnecessarily, as it allows access to your company’s filing functions. Should you need to change it for security reasons, you can do so through the Companies House WebFiling service.

If you suspect your code has been compromised, request a new one immediately to prevent unauthorised access to your company’s filings.

FAQs on authentication codes

1. How long does it take to receive my authentication code?

It generally takes around 3 to 5 working days, depending on postal service times. But during peak times it can take even longer. So it’s important to plan accordingly if you have filing deadlines approaching.

2. Can I file documents without the authentication code?

No, the authentication code is required for all online filings. Without it, you’ll need to file manually, which can be time-consuming and may incur additional fees.

3. What if I change my registered office address?

If you change your company’s registered address, ensure that you update this with Companies House first. If your address isn’t updated, the authentication code may be sent to an old address. Make sure you review our article on the requirements of a registered office before changing it. 

How Crunch can help limited companies

Navigating Company House requirements can feel like just one more thing on a growing list of to-dos for business owners. At Crunch, we simplify the process for limited companies by managing accounts and filings, from submitting confirmation statements to meeting tax deadlines. Our expert team and user-friendly software help you stay compliant and stress-free, with support available whenever you need it.

Our key takeaways

The Companies House authentication code is an essential part of online filing for UK companies, providing both security and convenience for your company filings. 

By following the steps above, you’ll be able to request a new code with ease. Remember, it’s always worth keeping your details updated and your code secure to ensure smooth management of your company’s statutory requirements.