What is a Company Registration Number (CRN)?

A Company Registration Number (CRN) is a unique identification code issued by Companies House when you register a company in the UK. It’s your business’s official ID on the public register, confirming its legal existence.

Every limited company and limited liability partnership (LLP) receives a CRN when they’re incorporated, and it remains the same for the life of the business – even if you change your company name or directors.

Why is a CRN Important?

Your CRN is essential for proving your company’s identity in official records. You’ll need it for:

• Filing annual accounts and confirmation statements with Companies House
• Correspondence with HMRC
• Opening a business bank account
• Applying for business loans or grants
• Registering for VAT or PAYE
• Updating company details with suppliers or partners

Without it, you cannot legally operate as a registered company in the UK.

Where to Find Your CRN

You can find your Company Registration Number in several places:

• Incorporation Certificate – Issued by Companies House upon registration
• Companies House Online Register – Search your business on the Companies House Find and Update Service
• Official Correspondence – Letters or emails from Companies House or HMRC
• Formation Agent Account – If you registered through a company formation agent like Formations Wise, your CRN will be in your confirmation documents

CRN Format

The format of your CRN depends on where and how your company was incorporated:

• England and Wales – Eight numbers (e.g. 12345678)
• Scotland – Starts with “SC” followed by six numbers (e.g. SC123456)
• Northern Ireland – Starts with “NI” followed by six numbers (e.g. NI123456)
• Limited Liability Partnerships – Prefix “OC” for England/Wales, “SO” for Scotland, and “NC” for Northern Ireland, followed by six numbers