The PROOF scheme has been introduced by Companies House to enable companies to protect against identity theft.

If a company registers for this scheme, Companies House will only accept certain forms if they are filed electronically, and in this way Companies House can be sure that the form has been filed by the company and not by someone with fraudulent intent.

Every company is given an unique electronic filing code, called the Company Authentication Code, and so forms filed electronically are "password protected", unlike a paper form.

Which companies are eligible for the scheme?

Most companies are eligible to register for the scheme. There are a number of exclusions, such as companies with over 20 members, over 50 officers, more than 6 share classes or a non-sterling capital.

How is the application made?

Every director of the company must consent to the application, by signing form PR1. The form is then filed at Companies House. No fee is payable to Companies House in respect of this form.

What is the effect of the application?

With effect from the date that the application is accepted by Companies House, Companies House will only accept the following forms if filed electronically:

• Form 287 (change of registered office),
• Forms 288a, 288b or 288c (appointment, removal and change of details of an officer of the company); and
• Form 363 (the annual return).

If these forms are submitted in paper they will be rejected, unless they are also accompanied by a Consent to Paper Filing Form (Form PR3). This Consent to Paper Filing form is only accepted if the Company Authentication Code is provided on the form.

Opting-out of the scheme

A company can opt-out on a form by form basis by filing Form PR3 along with the paper form, or permanently by filing from PR2, signed by all directors of the company.

Our PROOF registration service includes:

• Board minute or resolution approving PROOF application;
  
  
• Completion and filing of Form PR1; and
  
  
• Information sheet on PROOF service.

Next step

If you subscribe to our company secretarial service, because we already file electronically all you need do is apply for your company to be registered.

We can handle the registration process for you for a fee of £70 + VAT (£82.25). Please contact your administrator for details.

If you do not subscribe to our company secretarial service, we can handle the PROOF registration process for you for a fee of £150 + VAT (£176.25) Please contact Helen Goose for details.