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After you have incorporated your company, you will be sent your authentication code which is one of the most important pieces of information relating to your company.
Equivalent to your bank card pin or an electronic signature, anyone who knows your code will have control over you company’s details and be able to make changes to them online.
That’s why it’s imperative that you keep it secure and solely in the hands of someone you trust to file and change information for your company; such as your accountant.
The authentication code issued to your company is sent out to your registered address via post once you’ve set up your company and is a six digit alphanumeric code.
This code gives the bearer the power to file or change company information online and should only be entrusted to someone you have authorised to do so. It is a key security measure in the prevention of unauthorised access to your company account.
How do I use my company authentication code?
Firstly, if you have not already done so, you’ll need to register for online filing. Navigate to Companies House Webfiling and create an account by following the steps.
You will need your email address and a unique password to register. Companies House will then send you a reminder of your authentication code. After you have completed this and registered, you will be able to access your online account and perform actions such as; filing your annual accounts, filing your company’s confirmation statement, updating your company recorded information, changing your registered address and appointing new directors.
I’ve forgotten my authentication code, what do I do?
In the instance that you forget or mislay your code, you can retrieve it by requesting a reminder be sent out to you. To submit a request, login to your account and go to ‘requesting an authentication code’. This will prompt Companies House to send out a code, or a reminder if you had already been given one. This reminder is sent by post to your company’s registered office, so it’s worth making sure that is up to date at all times.
However, if you are unable to access your company’s registered office address, it is possible to request that your authentication code be sent to your home address instead. It’s worth noting that this is only a temporary option available due to the Covid-19 pandemic.
It can take a few days for your authentication code to arrive so bear that in mind if you have any looming deadlines for online filing.
Can I change my authentication code?
Yes, you can. It is possible to amend your existing code to something which is more memorable for you. Make sure that your new code is not something which can be easily guessed, or the same code used elsewhere. We also advise that you change your code if you appoint a new accountant or if there have been internal management changes to the company structure.
You may also want to change your code if you suspect someone might know it, who shouldn’t.
These precautions will minimise the threat of unauthorised access to your online account.
Here’s how to change your company’s authentication code:
1. Sign into your online account.
2. Select 'company authentication' on the left of the screen.
3. Enter your new 6-character code.
4. Select 'change code'.
You will then be sent a confirmation of the change of code to your registered office address.
As you can see, it’s quite easy to do. But remember to also inform anyone who files on your behalf of the change of code.
How do I use my code to file online?
To file, change or update your company information online you'll need your:
- email address
- password
- company registration number*
- authentication code
*Where do I find my company registration number?
Your company’s registration number is displayed on the public register of companies which can be accessed online via the Companies House Service. It can also be found on your certificate of incorporation and any official documents received from Companies House.
Using the online filing service offers many benefits. Firstly, it is faster so will save you time plus it’ll save you money as many of the forms that bear fees are cheaper if you file online. You will also get an instant response and confirmation that your documents have been filed.
Also, the online filing process has built-in checks to reduce the risk of errors and the need for filing amendments or corrections.
Why should I follow my company on Companies House?
Following your company on Companies House means you’ll get instant email alerts of any transactions relating to your company. This offers added security as well as the benefit of knowing what’s been successfully filed and accepted.
The email notifications also contain a link to the filing history of the company where you can download a copy of the document for free.
Following your company, or any other for that matter, is easy:
1. Sign into your account.
2. Search for a company to follow.
3. Select the company.
4. Click on ‘Follow this company’.
To see all of the companies you’ve chosen to follow, click ‘Companies you follow’. To stop receiving email alerts for a company, choose to ‘Unfollow’.
Would you like help with your company filings?
At Blue Rocket Accounting we offer a wide range of accountancy support services as well as completely managing your accounting obligations for you.
We offer packages and options to suit all types of businesses and their budgets.
If you’re interested in finding out more, call us for a no obligation chat on 01322 555442.
We look forward to hearing from you.
