Companies House recently announced an update to it’s PROOF service which takes effect from the 1st June 2021.
Currently, if a company has registered for PROOF certain filings can only be carried out electronically with the company’s authentication code. These filings include the change of registered office address and changes to directors or officers of the company, or their details. The service is now being extended so that it includes the Notice of change of name form (NM01) and the associated special resolution.
The addition of the change of name documentation to the PROOF scheme will help protect companies from fraudulent name changes being filed.
It is important to note that if Companies House becomes aware of a conflict between the officers of the Company whereby it is possible that conflicted filings could potentially be made that they will remove the PROOF service from that Company until they receive notification from all appointed officers that the position has been resolved or they receive a Court Order.
We would always recommend that all companies join the PROOF scheme at Companies House, it is a free service and adds an extra layer of protection for companies from fraudulent filings. Companies should of course always ensure that their authentication codes are kept safe and only provided to those who are authorised to file on behalf of the company.
This reflects the law at the date of publication and is written as a general guide. It does not contain definitive legal advice, which should be sought as appropriate in relation to your own particular matter before action is taken.
