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What Is a Company Registration Number?
A Company Registration Number (CRN) is a unique number given to a company when it’s formed. This number is issued by the relevant authority in the country where the business is registered. In the UK, Companies House gives the Company Registration Number to all limited companies and limited liability partnerships (LLPs).
The CRN number is usually 8-character long letters and numbers mixed or just numbers. It’s used for legal and tax purposes so businesses can be distinguished from each other.
Unlike a business registration no. which can refer to different types of registrations, a Company Registration Number stays the same throughout the company’s lifetime even if the business name changes.
How Do You Find a Company Registration Number?
It is easy to find a company registration number. There are many ways to detect this important identity:
Company House Website: In the UK, you can find a company Reg Number by entering the business’s name on the Company House website.
Official Documents: The registration number is visible on company incorporation documents, certificates, and official correspondence.
Company website: Many companies list their CRN numbers on their official website. Challans and contracts: Businesses often include their CO ID number on invoices and contracts.
Bank Statement and Tax Documents: A Business Registration No. It is often necessary to open commercial accounts and tax-related objectives.
Does a Sole Trader Have a Company Registration Number?
A only merchant does not have a company registration number (CRN) as they are not legally registered as a company with the company house. A CRN is a unique identifier that is assigned only to limited companies and limited liability participation (LLPS) on incorporation in the UK. Since the traders work as individuals rather than separate legal institutions, they do not need to register with the companies’ homes. Instead, they have to register with HMRC for self-assessment to report their earnings and pay taxes. Although the only traders have a CRN deficiency, they may still require other forms of registration. If their turnover is more than the VAT Threshold (£ 90,000 for 2025), they have to register for VAT and get a VAT registration number. Additionally, if they appoint employees, they will have to register for Paye and receive a unique reference number from HMRC. Some industries may also require specific licenses or regulatory registration to operate legally. However, a CRN is exclusive to limited companies, meaning that the only traders do not have one.
What Is an Example of a Company Registration Number?
A Company Registration Number example varies depending on the country of registration. In the UK, CRNs are typically eight characters long.
Here are some examples:
| Country | Example CRN |
|---|---|
| UK | 12345678 |
| UK (LTD) | OC123456 |
The format may include numbers only (as seen in the UK) or a combination of letters and numbers for LLPs.
How Does a Company Registration Number Differ from a VAT Number?
A Company Registration Number and a VAT registration number serve different purposes. While both are unique identifiers, they are used for separate legal and tax-related functions.
| Identifier | Purpose | Issued By |
|---|---|---|
| CRN (Company Registration Number) | Identifies a legally registered company | Companies House (UK) |
| VAT Number | Identifies a business for Value Added Tax purposes | HMRC (UK) |
A company registration number remains stable in the life of a company. However, businesses can change a company’s VAT registration number if they re-register under a separate VAT scheme. To verify the company registration numbers, you can check the online database like Company House for UK businesses.
How Can You Check a Company Registration Number?
A company registration number (CRN) is a unique identifier assigned to businesses registered with the company house in the UK. You can check the CRN of a company using the following methods:
Company House Website: Go to the Company House Search Tool and enter the company’s name to find its CRN.
Official documents: Check the company’s incorporation certificate, tax filing, or other official documents where CRN is listed.
Business Correspondence: Look at invoices, contracts, or legal agreements where CRN is often involved.
Company website: Many businesses display their CRN in the footer or legal section of their website.
This number is essential for legal compliance, taxation and verification purposes.
Conclusion
A Company Registration Number is a vital identifier for legally incorporated businesses. It is different from a VAT number and does not apply to sole traders. The number can be found on official documents, Companies House registration check.
For businesses, having a valid registration number company ensures compliance with tax laws and legal requirements. If you need to find a company VAT registration number, databases in both the UK provide verification tools. By understanding how to locate, verify, and differentiate a Company Registration Number, businesses can maintain compliance and operate with transparency.
FAQs
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What is a Company Registration Number used for?
A Company Registration Number (CRN) is used to legally identify a business, file tax returns, open bank accounts, and verify company details with authorities. -
How do I find a company registration number?
You can find a Company Registration Number on incorporation documents, Companies House (UK) business invoices, and tax filings.
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Does a sole trader have a Company Registration Number?
No, a sole trader does not have a Company Registration Number, as they are not legally incorporated as a company. However, they may have a VAT or UTR number.
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Is a Company Registration Number the same as a VAT number?
No, a CRN identifies a registered company, while a VAT number is issued for tax purposes when a business is VAT-registered.
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About the Author: Ahmad Raza
