From Autumn 2024, Companies House online services will start transitioning to the new government One Login service, with the WebFiling service following at a later date.
One Login Process
Businesses using Companies House online services will need to switch to GOV.UK One Login, the government’s new single sign-in service. This is replacing the current Government Gateway process, as announced by Companies House.
According to the Cabinet Office, which is overseeing the rollout, the One Login service will eventually replace Government Gateway accounts. This is in the form as a single identity verification and login system for accessing all central government services.
This enables users to access a variety of central government services with a single account, using one username and password. As a result, they won’t need to submit their information multiple times.
Two Testing Phases
The government announced that the changes will be rolled out in two testing phases, similar to the approach used in the Making Tax Digital beta programme.
- Private Beta – a small group of users of the “Find and update company information” service will be invited to sign in using GOV.UK One Login.
- Public Beta – all users of the “Find and update company information” service will have the option to sign in with GOV.UK One Login.
Once testing is complete, users signing into “Find and update company information” service will be required to use One Login.
Plenty Of Notice
In the announcement, the government stated that the WebFiling service will transition to GOV.UK One Login at a later stage. They stated this is with users being given “plenty of notice” before the change takes effect.
Under the new Economic Crime and Corporate Transparency Act, anyone establishing, managing, owning, or controlling a company in the UK will be required to verify their identity to confirm they are who they claim to be.
Once this requirement is fully implemented, users will be able to use One Login to verify their identity directly.
To find out more information on the new One Login, click here.
HMRC is one of the first government departments to adopt the digital sign-in system. The long-term goal is for all taxpayers, companies, and agents accessing its services through One Login.
Businesses or organisations are expected to migrate to the new system in 2025. Although no timeline has been announced for those acting on behalf of others, such as tax agents or those with power of attorney.
Further Information
If you would like further information on the upcoming changes, please contact your usual NRB advisor or accounts@nrb.co.uk.
Click here to find out more about our services.
