The AP01 appointment of director form is a crucial document used in the UK to officially record the appointment of a director to a company. This form, mandated by the Companies Act 2006, ensures that the appointment of a director is legally recognized and documented with Companies House.
Most private companies allow board-led appointments, but shareholder resolutions may be necessary in specific cases, especially for public companies or if the articles mandate it.
The AP01 appointment of director form requires detailed information about the new director, including their full name, date of birth, nationality, and residential address.
Step 1: Confirm Decision-Making Authority
The appointment of a director typically begins with identifying whether shareholders or the board of directors hold the authority to approve the appointment. For private companies, shareholder resolutions or board votes are common. Public companies often require formal board approval.
Step 2: Prepare Required Documentation
Once approval is secured, the proposed director must provide written consent to act in the role (Form AP01).
Step 3: File with Companies House
Within 14 days of the appointment, submit Form AP01 to Companies House. This step is mandatory under UK company law. Use the online portal for faster processing, ensuring accuracy to avoid delays. Failure to file on time may result in penalties or legal complications.
Step 4: Update the People with Significant Control (PSC) Register
If the new director qualifies as a Person with Significant Control (e.g., holds over 25% of shares or voting rights), update the PSC register within 14 days. Notify Companies House separately using Form PSC01 to maintain transparency.
Step 5: Manage Transitional Requirements (If Applicable)
If replacing an outgoing director, file Form TM01 to terminate their role officially. This ensures your company records remain accurate and avoids confusion regarding responsibilities.
At Xact+ Accountants, we will handle the filing of Companies House forms and manage all additional paperwork to guarantee that your company records remain compliant. The fee for this service is £24.99 per appointment or resignation.
Why Choose Xact Accountants for Director Appointments
Choosing Xact+ Accountants for your appointment of director and resignation needs ensures a smooth and compliant process. We handle the AP01 appointment of director form with precision, ensuring all details are correctly recorded and submitted to Companies House.
Our deep understanding of the appointment of a director process allows us to manage everything efficiently, giving you peace of mind to focus on your business. Trust Xact+ Accountants for professional, personalized service tailored to your specific requirements.
What do you need to do to appoint a director
To appoint a director, confirm authority (shareholder resolution or board approval per your company’s articles), obtain the director’s written consent (Form AP01), and file AP01 with Companies House within 14 days. Simultaneously, update the company’s statutory registers (directors and, if applicable, People with Significant Control). If replacing an outgoing director, file Form TM01 to terminate their role. Ensure compliance with deadlines to avoid penalties. Keep records of resolutions, consent forms, and filing confirmations.
Who can appoint a director
The power to appoint a director depends on a company’s articles of association and structure:
- Shareholders: Typically, shareholders can appoint directors via an ordinary resolution (majority vote) during a general meeting or through written consent.
- Board of Directors: In many companies, the board holds authority to appoint directors, especially if permitted by the articles. This is common for private companies.
- Existing Directors: Some articles allow current directors to appoint additional directors, subject to shareholder or board approval.
How long does it take to add a director to a company
Legally, you must notify Companies House within 14 days using Form AP01.
Processing time by Companies House: 24 hours if filed online; 8–10 days if filed by post.
The director is legally appointed once the company approves the appointment, but timely filing avoids penalties.
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