How to change a limited company name: routes, fees and next steps

The two ways to change a limited company name

GOV.UK sets out two routes for a private limited company. You can change the name by special resolution, or by a method the company's articles of association permit.

A special resolution needs at least 75% of the shareholders' votes. Many private companies pass it as a written resolution, without holding a meeting. Once it is passed, you give notice to Companies House on form NM01, with a copy of the resolution.

If your articles say the name can be changed some other way, for example by a decision of the directors, you use form NM04 instead. That form includes a statement that the change was made in line with the articles. Read your articles before choosing this route. Many companies use model articles, which do not set out a separate method.

Public companies, and private companies that choose to pass the special resolution at a general meeting, can also give notice on the paper form 'Special resolution on change of name'.

Source: Make changes to your private limited company: company name

Check the new name is available and allowed

Before you pass the resolution, search the Companies House register. Duplicate names are not permitted, and the new name must follow all the rules for company names.

A name counts as the 'same as' an existing name if it is so similar it is likely to confuse the public. When Companies House compares names, it ignores certain words and symbols, such as 'Limited' and '&'. GOV.UK gives the example that 'Plum Technology Ltd' is the same as 'Plum Technology & Company Ltd'.

A name can also be challenged as 'too like' another if it differs by only a few characters or looks and sounds the same. The Secretary of State can direct a change of a 'too like' name within 12 months of registration, so a name that is technically free can still cause problems.

A private limited company's name must end in 'Limited' or 'Ltd', or the Welsh equivalent. Some words are sensitive, such as words that suggest a link to government or a regulated activity. If your new name uses one, you may need to ask a named body for its view first. You then send its reply with your application, along with form NM06 to show that consent was sought.

A free name on the register does not clear trade mark rights. If you are unsure, check the trade marks register too.

Source: Incorporation and names

Step by step: change the name by special resolution

Most private companies change their name with a special resolution of the shareholders, followed by form NM01. Work through these steps in order.

1. Check the new name is available and follows the rules.
2. Draft the special resolution, stating the new name in full.
3. Get it passed. For a written resolution, shareholders holding at least 75% of the voting rights must agree.
4. File form NM01 with a copy of the resolution, online with the company authentication code or by post. Companies House cannot change the name until it has received the copy. NM01 is only for an unconditional change, so do not attach a condition such as 'subject to completion of a sale'.
5. Send it promptly. The Companies Act requires a copy of a special resolution to reach Companies House within 15 days after it is passed, and filing NM01 straight away keeps you inside that limit.
6. Pay the fee and wait for the new certificate before you start trading under the new name.

Source: Change a company name (NM01)

Companies House fees for a name change

These are the fees on the Companies House fees page, last updated 25 September 2026. Fees change from time to time, so check the fees page on the day you file. Our guide to Companies House fees lists the other common charges.

The GOV.UK name change page still gives £83 for the same-day service. The newer fees page and the NM01 form page both give £85.

The total SimpleFilings price includes the applicable Companies House fee and our £4.99 service fee.

Source: Companies House fees

When the new name takes effect

Passing the resolution does not change the name by itself. The name changes when Companies House registers it and issues a new certificate of incorporation. The certificate shows the new name and the date of registration. Under the Companies Act, the change takes effect from the date the new certificate is issued.

Your company number stays the same. The change does not affect the company's rights or obligations. Existing contracts, debts and legal proceedings carry on under the new name.

If you need the change on a set day, use the same-day service and file early in the day. Keep the new certificate with the company's records.

Source: Companies Act 2006, Part 5 Chapter 5: change of name

What to update after changing your company name

GOV.UK says to tell Companies House first and then tell HMRC about changes to your business. Update each HMRC service you use, such as Corporation Tax, PAYE and VAT. For VAT, you must tell HMRC within 30 days.

Tell your bank. It may ask to see the new certificate.

The company must display its registered name at its registered office and other business premises, and on its letters, order forms, invoices and website. Update your letterhead, email signatures, invoice templates, website footer and any signs.

Also update contracts and terms, insurance policies, suppliers and customers, licences, domain names and online profiles.

Source: Tell HMRC about changes to your business

Common company name change mistakes

Using the new name before the certificate is issued. Until then, the legal name is still the old one.

Filing NM01 without a copy of the resolution, or filing a conditional resolution on NM01. Both stop the change going through.

Choosing NM04 when the articles do not actually give the company another method.

Checking only for an exact match on the register and missing a 'same as' or 'too like' name.

Forgetting to update HMRC, the bank and the name shown on invoices and the website.

Get help with your name change

SimpleFilings can file NM01 for you once the special resolution has been passed. Our £4.99 service fee is separate from the Companies House fee. If your articles set out a different method, use our articles and resolutions service, where we check the documents and confirm the right form first. We do not draft bespoke articles or give legal advice on a name. The name only changes once Companies House registers it and issues the new certificate.