A Company Registration Number (CRN) is a unique eight-character identifier assigned to every limited company and Limited Liability Partnership (LLP) registered with Companies House. Think of it as your company’s fingerprint, as it remains the same for the lifetime of your business.
The number will follow one of these formats:
| Format | Example |
|---|---|
| 8 digits | 31415926 |
| Two letters followed by 6 digits | PI314159 |
Where to Find Your Company Registration Number
If you need your Company Registration Number but don’t remember it, here are the best places to look:
1. Companies House Website
The quickest way to find your CRN is by searching for your company on the Companies House Online Register. Your CRN will be displayed at the top of your company’s profile.
2. Certificate of Incorporation
When you registered your business, Companies House provided a Certificate of Incorporation. This document includes your CRN and also serves as proof of your company’s legal existence.
3. Official Correspondence
Your CRN appears on official documents from Companies House, HMRC and other government bodies. Look for it on tax letters, filing reminders and annual return notifications.
4. Business Bank Account
If you have opened a business bank account, check your account details or welcome emails. Many banks require your CRN during account setup.
5. Accountant or Business Advisor
If you work with an accountant, they will have your CRN on file. A quick email or call to them can save you time searching.
6. Company Website or Internal Records
Companies must display their CRN on official documents, including invoices and contracts. If you company maintains organised records, your CRN should be easy to find.
When You Need Your Company Registration Number
Your Company Registration Number is required for several things, including:
- Filing confirmation statements and annual accounts
- Registering for Corporation Tax, VAT or PAYE
- Submitting tax returns and paying business taxes
- Changing company details, such as name or registered address
- Appointing or removing directors and LLP members
- Selling shares or issuing dividend vouchers
- Dissolving your company
It must also be displayed on all business stationary, including:
- Letterheads
- Emails
- Invoices
- Receipts
- Websites
Company Registration Number vs Unique Taxpayer Reference
A Company Registration Number and a Unique Taxpayer Reference (UTR) are not the same.
- Companies House will issue a CRN for company identification
- HMRC will issue a UTR for tax purposes
Sole Traders do not have a CRN as they do not register with Companies House. Instead, they use their UTR for tax matters.
How to Check a Company’s Previous Name
If you company has changed its name, you can still find its previous names using its Company Registration Number. Simply search for the company on the Companies House register. The results will display the company’s historical names under its profile.
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This article is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or financial advice. While we aim to keep our content up to date and accurate, UK tax laws and regulations are subject to change. Please speak to an accountant or tax professional for advice tailored to your individual circumstances. Pi Accountancy accepts no responsibility for any issues arising from reliance on the information provided.