Companies House WebFiling Login Problems: Solutions & Alternatives
Logging into Companies House WebFiling to file your confirmation statement or make changes can be frustrating when things go wrong. In 2026, many directors face issues due to the switch to GOV.UK One Login and other updates. The service still works for some filings like confirmation statements, but login hurdles are common. Here are practical fixes and other ways to handle your filings.
Common Login Problems in 2026
The biggest change hit in October 2025: WebFiling now requires GOV.UK One Login. If you try the old email and password, it redirects you to connect or create a One Login account.
Other frequent issues include:
- Forgotten passwords or old credentials not working after the switch.
- Problems creating or linking a GOV.UK One Login (errors like “there is a problem” or failed verification).
- Identity verification failures during setup, especially with photo ID mismatches or app glitches.
- Shared accounts no longer allowed – only one person can link per WebFiling account, so teams need separate One Logins with different emails.
- Temporary service errors (like error 9999 or 400), though most got fixed shortly after the October change.
If your company number has certain prefixes or is all digits, there might be restrictions on access too.
Step-by-Step Solutions to Fix Login Issues
- Go to the WebFiling sign-in page (ewf.companieshouse.gov.uk or via the main Companies House site). You’ll be redirected to GOV.UK One Login.
- If you have a GOV.UK One Login already, sign in and follow prompts to connect your WebFiling account. Use the same email where possible.
- No One Login? Create one at sign-in.service.gov.uk. It asks for basic details and identity verification (passport/driving licence via app, security questions, or Post Office visit with QR code).
- For forgotten passwords on old WebFiling: Use the reset link, but expect redirection to One Login.
- Identity verification stuck? Try a different method (app failed? Switch to Post Office). Contact GOV.UK One Login support if needed, or email [email protected] for Companies House-specific help. They have extended hours and specialist teams for tricky cases.
- Shared access problem? Each user needs their own One Login. Link only one to the main WebFiling account.
These steps sort most issues. If it persists, check the Companies House blog or guidance pages for updates.
Alternatives to WebFiling
WebFiling is handy for simple filings like confirmation statements (CS01), but for accounts, things change fast.
From 1 April 2026, the old joint HMRC/Companies House service for accounts and tax returns closed. You now file accounts separately, and Corporation Tax needs commercial software.
For accounts, WebFiling or paper works until 1 April 2027, when all accounts filing moves to commercial software only (no web or paper).
If WebFiling login keeps failing:
- Use approved software for filings where possible (many handle CS01 too).
- For quick checks or monitoring without filing, the public search on find-and-update.company-information.service.gov.uk shows deadlines and history without login.
- Paper filing remains an option for some forms, though slower and costlier.
Many directors prefer tools that avoid login hassles altogether for day-to-day needs. If you’re just checking company details, upcoming deadlines, or filing history, Companies House on the Go from Touch of Class offers a straightforward way. It searches public records instantly on your phone, tracks confirmation and accounts dates, and lets you watch multiple companies without repeated site visits or logins. Users often say it simplifies staying on top of things when official portals feel clunky.
For reliable ways to access company info quickly, have a look at Companies on the Go.
Tips to Avoid Future Problems
- Set up GOV.UK One Login early if you haven’t.
- Verify your identity promptly (required for many filings in 2026).
- Use strong, unique details and note your One Login email.
- Check deadlines on the public company page regularly.
Login troubles are annoying, but most get resolved with the right steps or a quick email to support. Once sorted, filings go smoothly. If you’re fed up with browser hassles, a simple app can make checking your company much easier.
Download the app for hassle-free access:
iOS version or