Companies House

Electronic Filing Software Service Update
February 2009

Software Changes 

In increasing numbers our customers are choosing to use the new route which allows the submission of documents via an XML (WEB) Service interface.

The XML Gateway provides online access over the internet into Companies House databases, for customers to submit as well as to retrieve company information via their own applications or web pages.

It is important that customers are aware that although Companies House is still operating its “Tag-based” Software Filing for existing customers, this will not continue.

The "Tag-based" service functionality will cease on 1st October 2009 and no further filing will be possible via this route. 

Companies Act 2006 

The final implementation of the Companies Act 2006 will take place on 1st October 2009. At this time a new range of form types will be introduced for events that take place on or after the implementation date.

In preparation for this we are able to provide a Draft of the 2006 XML Technical Interface Specification and Draft Schemas. We must point out at this stage that the 2006 Act schemas are for information only and may be subject to changes before the final versions are made available in April 2009.

XML Migration

As explained previously, we would like to encourage customers to make the migration to XML now. This will also be beneficial as the current schemas (1985 Act versions) will still be relevant for events that take place prior to 1st October 2009.

Free Access to Company Information

Using XML there is also the added advantage of a “read function” of data held at Companies House, which is accessible via the XML Gateway, free of charge, to help with the subsequent filing of information. 

XML Test Accounts 

Test accounts can be set up for submissions based on the existing schemas or in readiness for future testing and specialist technical support is in place for migrating customers. Even if customers are waiting for the new schema testing (Companies Act 2006), we would advise that the test account be set up now to avoid any delay.

Testing Slots

To ensure that the maximum level of support is available to presenters, we plan to offer specific testing slots during the period leading up to the October implementation.

These will be periods of a month each running April, May, June, July or August. We therefore, invite customers to book their particular testing period well in advance to ensure their needs are fully met.  

Further Information, Documentation or Testing

Draft Schemas and Technical Interface Specification are available from Marie Connors, Customer Liaison Manager  - mconnors@companieshouse.gov.uk  - who can also arrange a test account or book a testing slot for the new 2006 schemas.