The development is part of a relaxation in company rules made under the Electronic Communications Act 2000 which enables companies to use the internet in their communications with Companies House, their shareholders and auditors.
Until now, companies could only file these details by completing forms – known as Form 287 and Form 288. The forms required a signature by a director, secretary or solicitor. Companies House has opted not to require use of digital signatures by those filing on behalf of companies.
To ensure the security of all company information submitted electronically, all presenters are asked to register to use the service. The presenter needs to firstly apply for a unique Security Code, which is linked to their e-mail address. This code is sent to the e-mail address provided and gives the presenter access to the service. Any correspondence between the presenter and Companies House, e.g. acknowledgement of company details changed, is sent to this e-mail address.
The documents are not filed by e-mail under the service. Instead, documents are sent to a secure extranet operated by Companies House. The new procedure is most likely to be of interest to those who file documents on a regular basis, such as company secretaries of a large group of companies.
Once the presenter has received their security code they will also need a Company Authentication Code. This code is linked to the company number and will be posed by snail mail to the Company Secretary at the company’s registered office address.
When the presenter has both their Security Code and Authentication Code they are able to present their company information electronically. The Web Filing service is available from Monday to Saturday 7am to 12 midnight.
To use the Web Filing service, visit www.companieshouse.gov.uk