The authentication code is a 6 digit alphanumeric code issued to each company. The code is used to authorise information filed online and is the equivalent of a company officer’s signature.
If you’re new to online filing, you’ll need to follow these steps to get your code.
- Register your email address and password.
- Select ‘Request an authentication code’.
- Enter your company registration number.
- Select ‘Request code’.
Your code will be sent by post to your company’s registered office. If your company already has a code, we’ll send a reminder.
For security reasons, we cannot send your authentication code by email or tell you over the phone.
You’ll use the same authentication code for your company to use our online filing services or third-party software.
Keep your code safe
You should treat your company’s authentication code with the same care as your bank card PIN. Anyone who knows your code can change your company’s details online.
If you forget your code, do not wait until you’re due to file to request a new code. It can take up to 5 days to arrive, or longer during busy periods.
Just like your bank card PIN, you can change your authentication code to something more memorable. But do not make it easy to guess.
Use a mix of letters and numbers and keep it safe. Only share your code with someone you trust to file information for your company.
You should change your code if it’s known by someone you do not trust. And remember to change your code if it’s known by someone who’s no longer authorised to file for your company - like directors or employees who’ve left, or your previous accountant.
Remember your code
Isn’t it annoying when you can’t remember your PIN? It’s happened to me twice.
First time, checking out of a hotel. Standing in the queue, card in hand and thinking I cannot remember it.
As the queue became shorter, numbers went through my mind. I’m sure it begins with 1. Or is it 7?
Trying to picture my hands on the keypad last time I used it.
It’s not as if I hadn’t used it for ages. I used it last night to get money from the cash point.
Let’s do the flash back scene that they do in the movies.
Walk towards the cashpoint. Offer up my card to the slot. “Would you like the transaction in English or Welsh?” “Your card is being read.” “Enter your PIN.”
And nope, it’s gone. Nothing. Nada.
Only one person in front of me now. Do I bail out and pretend that I’ve forgotten something? Do I pretend my phone is ringing or that I’ve received an important message?
No, I’m going to stick it out, it’ll come to me I’m sure. My turn next.
”Checking out sir?”
Yes.
“Your room number?”
435 (it’s on the room card, or I wouldn’t know that either). Check the bill, put my card in the machine.
“Please check the amount and enter your PIN.”
1527 - where did that come from? PIN accepted, hand the machine back to the vendor. Phew!
I’ve had the same number for years. It’s never changed, and I use it at least 2 or 3 times a week. How could I forget it? Oh well, just one of those things.
What’s more difficult to remember are those PINs, codes and passwords you don’t use as often. If someone asked me my National Insurance number or my driving licence number, I couldn’t tell them instantly - but I know where to find them.
It’s a bit like knowing your Companies House online authentication code. You might only use it once or twice a year, but you need to have it to make your online filings.
So, a quick test for you. Do you know what your authentication code is?
If not, you might want to use Companies House service to check when your company filings are due. And make sure you have your code well in advance, so you can file before the deadlines.
Now, did I tell you about when I forgot where I parked my car? That’s another story.
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