A New Name, a Clear Way Forward
Changing your company’s name is an important step in reshaping its identity, reflecting new ownership or supporting a new business direction. We help you understand the process, organise the necessary approvals and prepare the relevant documentation for submission to Companies House.
From reviewing your proposed name to coordinating the application, we provide practical support tailored to your circumstances. Our guidance helps you manage the change efficiently, keep company records consistent and understand which business documents and communications need updating, so you can move forward confidently under your new name.
Forms covered
| Form | Description |
|---|---|
| NM01 | Notice of Change of Name by Resolution (version 7.0, 11/25) |
| NM03 | Notice Confirming Satisfaction of a Conditional Resolution for Change of Name (version 5.0, 05/24) |
| NM04 | Notice of Change of Name by Means Provided for in the Articles (version 5.0, 05/24) |
| NM06 | Request to Seek Comments of a Government Department or Other Specified Body on Change of Name (version 5.0, 03/26) |
| NE01 | Exemption from “Limited” or “Cyfyngedig” on Change of Name (version 5.0, 03/26) |
Deadlines and fees
- £30 paper fee for NM01, NM03 and NM04 (£20 online for NM01).
- GOV.UK sets 15 days for reporting changes to the constitution or articles.
- NM03 is filed once the conditions of the resolution are met.
- With NM06, the change can’t complete until the response is received.
Key points
- The proposed name must be available. Duplicate names aren’t allowed.
- Sensitive or restricted words need NM06 and supporting information.
- A copy of the resolution is attached to NM01 and NM03 unless already filed.
- NM04 applies only where the change is made by means provided in the articles.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Have a question about our services? Speak with our team to discuss your engagement, deadlines and the support you need.
Can a Company Trade Under a New Name Straight Away?
If you are changing your registered company name, the change takes effect when Companies House registers it. Wait for the certificate of incorporation on change of name before using the new name as your registered name. A separate trading name is possible, subject to business name restrictions and company disclosure requirements.
When is NM06 Needed?
Use NM06 when your proposed name contains a sensitive or restricted word and the rules require you to seek comments or consent from a government department or other specified body. The form tells Companies House that you have sought that consent. Check the requirements for the specific word before submitting the name change.
How do I Approve and File a Company Name Change?
A company can usually change its name by passing a special resolution of its members. File a copy of the resolution with Companies House within 15 days of passing it. Use NM01 for an unconditional change by resolution, or file online if your application is eligible.
When should I Use NM03 or NM04?
Use NM03 to confirm that the conditions attached to a resolution to change the company name have been met. Use NM04 when the company changes its name through a procedure specifically allowed by its articles of association. Check how the change was approved before choosing the form.
How can I Check Whether the New Company Name is Available?
Use the Companies House name availability checker before approving the change. Check whether the proposed name is the same as an existing name under Companies House rules. Also check for sensitive words and existing trade marks, as a name can appear available on the register and still raise a separate trade mark issue.
How much Does it Cost to Change a Company Name?
For an eligible change by special resolution, Companies House charges £20 for standard online filing and £85 for its same-day online service. Filing NM01 on paper costs £30. Check the fee for your specific filing route before submitting the application.
Can a Company Remove “Limited” or “Cyfyngedig” from Its Registered Name?
An eligible company can use form NE01 to claim an exemption from using “Limited” or “Cyfyngedig” when changing its name. Eligibility depends on the company meeting the statutory conditions. Check those conditions before approving a name that omits the ending.
What Should I Update Once Companies House Registers the New Name?
Update your invoices, business letters, website and other materials that display your registered company name. Notify your bank, customers, suppliers and other organisations that hold your company details. Keep the name-change certificate with your company records so you can provide evidence of the change when requested.