Companies House Fee Increases from 1 February 2026 – What Small Businesses Need to Know

From 1 February 2026, Companies House is increasing a number of its statutory filing fees.

If your first reaction was “Hang on… wasn’t running a company already expensive enough?” ... you’re not alone.

Let’s break down what’s changing, what it actually means for you, and what (thankfully) isn’t changing.

Why are Companies House increasing their fees?

The short version: reform and regulation.

Companies House is undergoing the biggest overhaul in its history, driven by the Economic Crime and Corporate Transparency Act. The aim is to:

• Improve identity verification

• Reduce fraud and misuse of companies

• Increase data accuracy and transparency

  
  

All sensible goals... but yes, they come with higher fees.

Which Companies House fees are increasing in 2026?

Here are some of the most common filings affected:

• Company incorporations – increasing

• Confirmation Statements – increasing

• Late filing penalties – increasing

• Certain change filings (officers, details, etc.) – increasing

👉 The key takeaway: routine admin now costs more, especially if things are left late.

Are Companies House fee increases an extra charge from your accountant?

No, and this bit is important.

These increases are Companies House fees only.

Any professional fees you pay to file documents are separate.

At H&S Accounting:

• Our fees remain unchanged

• There is no surcharge

• You only pay the statutory fee set by Companies House

So if a filing costs more, that extra cost is going straight to Companies House, not us.

What do the Companies House changes mean for small businesses?

Honestly? Mostly a reminder to:

• File things on time

• Keep company details up to date

• Avoid unnecessary penalties

• Late or forgotten filings will now hurt the wallet more than before.

If your company is well-run and compliant, this is more of an annoyance than a disaster.

How to avoid higher Companies House costs

A few simple habits make all the difference:

✔ Respond to requests for info promptly

✔ Don’t ignore Companies House letters

✔ File Confirmation Statements on time

✔ Let your accountant know about changes early

Admin done early is always cheaper than admin done late.

Final thoughts on Companies House fee increases

Are we thrilled about fee increases?

Absolutely not.

But they’re happening, and the best defence is good organisation and timely filings.

If you’re unsure whether upcoming changes affect your company, or you want to make sure everything is tidy before February, just shout. I’m very much on your side with this one.