New Companies House filing requirements under the Economic Crime and Corporate Transparency Act (ECCTA) 2023.

What’s happening? 

The ECCTA received Royal Assent in October 2023 and gives more powers to Companies House to play a more significant role in tackling economic crime and supporting economic growth.  Introduction of new laws under the ECCTA will be phased in over the next year, or so.   

Why is it happening? 

Over time, the new laws will improve transparency and ensure that there is more accurate and trusted information at Companies House and within company registers.  

Who it affects 

• Private limited companies  
• Public limited companies  
• Limited liability partnerships  
• Overseas companies  
• Limited partnerships  
• Scottish qualifying partnerships  
• Overseas entities  

Changes from March 2024 

The first phase of new laws came into force from 4 March 2024, whereby on incorporation of a new company, or on filing the annual Confirmation Statement: 

1. A Registered Email Address will need to be provided to Companies House to enable it to send notifications to a company.  The email address will not appear on the public record. 
2. A statement will need to be provided confirming that the entity’s intended future activities are for lawful purposes. 
3. The Registered Office Address must be confirmed as being an “appropriate address” in accordance with the ECCTA. 

An ‘appropriate address’ is one where: 

• any documents sent to the registered office should be expected to come to the attention of a person acting on behalf of the company; and 
• any documents sent to that address can be recorded by an acknowledgement of delivery. 

May 2024 New Penalty regulations come into force
As well as the aforementioned changes, from May 2024, ECCTA Financial Penalty Regulations are due to come into force which will enable Companies House to impose a financial penalty for many offences under the Companies Act 2006 which currently require a criminal prosecution to be taken to the courts.   

More changes ahead 

This isn’t everything, there are more changes planned under the legislation so please keep an eye on our socials and your inbox for further information. 

What does it mean for me? 

You need to be aware of the changes and how they will affect you and take the necessary action in order to stay compliant. 

How can Wilson Partners help? 

If we usually take care of your Companies House filings, we will explain the requirements further when contacting you ahead of your next Confirmation Statement filing date and let you know what options are available to you, but if you have any questions, please contact your client manager for further information.