Changes to Company Reporting and Incorporation Fees in 2026 – Mandatory ID Verification Introduced
- TBA
- Nov 26
- 3 min read
From 1 February 2026, Companies House will officially increase the Annual Filing Fee for existing companies and the Incorporation Fee for new companies.
This adjustment is intended to support Companies House in enhancing its service levels, though it will result in increased costs for your business.
Therefore, all companies registered and operating in the UK, whether existing businesses or new incorporations, need to prepare for these changes by undertaking financial planning and ensuring compliance.
What are the annual filing fee and incorporation fee change?
Companies House has confirmed that from February 2026, the Annual Filing Fee will rise regardless of whether you choose the digital (online) or paper (postal) submission method:
The fee for digital (online) submission will rise from the original £34 to £50.
The fee for paper (postal) submission will increase from £62 to £110.
The more significant increase for paper filing shows Companies House's commitment to encouraging businesses to adopt digital methods for submitting information.
Online filing is quicker and more accurate, helping to avoid missed deadlines and reducing system processing costs.
For newly incorporated companies, the incorporation fee will also increase:
The electronic incorporation fee will double from £50 to £100.
The digital submission fee for the Confirmation Statement will also rise from £34 to £50.
The fee for paper incorporation will increase from £71 to £124.
However, it is worth noting that not all fees are increasing. The fees for Voluntary Strike-off applications will decrease: digital submission will fall to £13, and paper submission will fall to £18.
This is one of the few 'beneficial' changes in this round of adjustments.
Why are the fees being raised?
Companies House explains that the fee increase has two main purposes:
To support its digitisation and service upgrades, including improving technology systems, increasing information processing efficiency, and strengthening data security.
To help the Insolvency Service carry out its regulatory duties, including company liquidations, director disqualifications, fraud investigations, and enforcement.
Mandatory identity verification effective from 18 November 2025
In addition to the fee adjustments, Companies House has implemented a new Mandatory Identity Verification (ID Verification) system effective from 18 November 2025. All company directors and Persons with Significant Control (PSCs) must pass identity verification.
Existing company personnel will have a 12-month grace period, with the deadline being 18 November 2026; new company incorporations will need to complete ID verification at the time of registration.
Verification can be completed in two ways:
By registering via the official GOV.UK One Login website.
By authorising an Authorised Company Service Provider (ACSP) to handle the process.
The view from TB Accountants
Overall, the magnitude of the Companies House fee increases may seem small, but in the long run, they will have an impact on business operations. The cost pressure will significantly increase if a business continues to use paper submission methods.
However, transitioning to digital processes as soon as possible will not only save costs but also reduce the risk of human error and delay.
Furthermore, if a business fails to plan its budget in advance or ignores filing deadlines, it may be fined for delays or even suffer damage to its company reputation.
Therefore, we recommend that business owners:
Include the new fees in their 2026 budget plan and manage their finances appropriately.
Prioritise using digital submission methods to avoid unnecessary extra costs.
Strengthen internal compliance management to ensure all filings and records are timely and accurate.
Consult a professional accountant or business adviser promptly when in doubt to receive accurate guidance.
If you still have questions about the new regulations, fee changes, or the ID verification process, our professional accounting team can offer you one-to-one consultation and assistance to help you navigate these changes successfully.
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