From this week, UK companies can file certain documents with
Companies House on-line. At present, only changes in a company’s
registered office address and details of the appointment and
termination of directors and secretaries can be filed, but the
range is due to increase in the near future.
The development is part of a relaxation in company rules made
under the Electronic Communications Act 2000 which enables
companies to use the internet in their communications with
Companies House, their shareholders and auditors.
Until now, companies could only file these details by completing
forms – known as Form 287 and Form 288. The forms required a
signature by a director, secretary or solicitor. Companies House
has opted not to require use of digital signatures by those filing
on behalf of companies.
To ensure the security of all company information submitted
electronically, all presenters are asked to register to use the
service. The presenter needs to firstly apply for a unique Security
Code, which is linked to their e-mail address. This code is sent to
the e-mail address provided and gives the presenter access to the
service. Any correspondence between the presenter and Companies
House, e.g. acknowledgement of company details changed, is sent to
this e-mail address.
The documents are not filed by e-mail under the service.
Instead, documents are sent to a secure extranet operated by
Companies House. The new procedure is most likely to be of interest
to those who file documents on a regular basis, such as company
secretaries of a large group of companies.
Once the presenter has received their security code they will
also need a Company Authentication Code. This code is linked to the
company number and will be posed by snail mail to the Company
Secretary at the company’s registered office address.
When the presenter has both their Security Code and
Authentication Code they are able to present their company
information electronically. The Web Filing service is available
from Monday to Saturday 7am to 12 midnight.
To use the Web Filing service, visit www.companieshouse.gov.uk
