What Is a Company Authentication Code and Why It Matters

In the UK, most company filings are now done online through Companies House WebFiling. To access your company’s records, make updates, or submit forms, you need one critical piece of information: your company authentication code.This article explains what the Companies House authentication code is, why it’s important, and how Dragonfly Associates helps clients manage their codes securely—subject to agreement.

What Is the Authentication Code?

The authentication code is a 6-character alphanumeric password assigned to your company by Companies House.

It acts as your digital signature and verifies that the person making online filings (e.g. changes to directors, registered office, share capital) is authorised to do so.

Think of it as your company’s filing password.

When Do You Need the Code?

You’ll need your authentication code to:

File Confirmation Statements (CS01)
Update director or shareholder details
Change the company’s registered office
File annual accounts or make corrections
Submit share allotments (SH01), changes (SH02), or capital statements
Authorise third-party providers or software

Dragonfly Associates uses the authentication code to file statutory documents on behalf of clients, where agreed.

How Do You Get It?

You’ll receive the authentication code when you:

Form your company using Companies House directly
Form your company through a registered agent (the agent may receive the code first)

It is posted to your registered office address for security purposes.

We ensure our clients receive their code securely, and we store it safely as part of our ongoing compliance services.

Lost or Forgotten Your Authentication Code?

Lost or Forgotten Your Code?

If you’ve lost your code or didn’t receive it:

Go to the Companies House WebFiling service
Request a new authentication code
It will be posted to your registered office within 5 working days

Dragonfly Associates helps clients retrieve and reset authentication codes, especially when acting as the registered office or managing filings.

Protecting Your Authentication Code

Treat your authentication code like a company password. If it falls into the wrong hands, someone could make unauthorised changes to your public company record.

Tips for protection:

Never share it publicly or include it in unsecured emails
Only give access to trusted professionals
Keep it separate from general company documents
Update it if you suspect misuse

We follow strict confidentiality protocols when storing and using client authentication codes, depending on your service package.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I change my authentication code?

Yes. You can log into WebFiling and choose a new code if you’re already authenticated.

Can I file documents without the code?

Only certain paper filings are allowed without it. Most online submissions require the code.

Can Dragonfly Associates use the code on my behalf?

Yes. With your consent, we use your authentication code to submit filings and maintain your company’s records under agreement.

Stay in Control of Your Company’s Filings

Your authentication code is essential to managing your company’s online presence with Companies House. Losing it—or letting it fall into the wrong hands—can cause delays or risks.

Dragonfly Associates helps you secure, recover, and use your code safely, while managing your filings on time and in full compliance.

Need help locating or protecting your authentication code? Contact our team today.