What is it and why does it matter?

The company authentication code is a unique 6-digit alphanumeric code that acts as the electronic equivalent of a director's signature. Every UK limited company receives this code from Companies House upon incorporation. It verifies that the person submitting documents or making changes is authorised to do so.

Having access to your company’s authentication code is important. Without it, a company is restricted to paper filing methods, which take time to prepare (and get accepted) and generally result in more errors.

How to Find My Code

If you incorporated your company through our formation service, you can find your authentication code in the Order Fulfilment email, in the attachment titled 'Authentication Code'.

You can also find the code via your online portal:

1) Log in to your Online Portal using your username and password

2) On the Dashboard, select 'My Companies'

3) Next to your company name, you will see your 'Auth Code'

If you did not incorporate your company using our formation service, the code would have been sent to your Registered Office via post. If you do not have a copy of this or did not receive the initial letter, you can request a new code via the Companies House Website.

Who should have it?

Here's a breakdown of who might have access to this code and why:

• The company director(s): As the primary individuals responsible for the company, the director(s) must have access to the authentication code. It is their equivalent of a handwritten signature for online filings.
• The company secretary (if applicable): A company secretary is an officer of the company and is authorized to manage its administration, including filings with Companies House.
• Trusted individuals with filing authority: The authentication code can be shared with a trusted person who is authorized to file documents on behalf of the company. This often includes:
  • Accountants: An accountant will need the code to file annual accounts and other financial documents.
  • Company formation agents: If you used an agent to form your company, they may have access to the code in their online portal to assist with post-incorporation filings.
  • Other authorized agents: Anyone who has been given the authority to make changes to the company's records with Companies House will need the code.

Why do we request it?

We require your company’s authentication code to:

• Confirm your company details for compliance purposes.
• Update your official address at Companies House once your service has been set up.