SH13 Form UK: Notice of Class of Members Name

What this document is

Form SH13 is the Companies House notice used by a company that does not have a share capital to record the name or designation it has given to a class of its members. Companies without share capital are commonly companies limited by guarantee, including charities, clubs, and membership organisations.

These companies often divide their members into groups with different voting rights, subscription obligations, or participation entitlements. When such a group is labelled, for example 'founding members', 'associate members', or 'life members', Companies House needs to know. The SH13 form captures the company number and name, the name or designation assigned to the class, and the date on which it was assigned.

It is signed by a director, secretary, or other authorised person and filed on paper with Companies House. The form exists so that the public record accurately reflects how the company's membership is structured, which matters for transparency and for anyone dealing with the company.

How to use this document

1. Check whether the filing applies to you. Form SH13 is only relevant for companies without share capital. If your company is limited by shares, this form is not the right route and a different notification may apply. Confirm your company's status on the public register before proceeding.
2. Identify the class and its assigned name. Look at the resolution, articles amendment, or board decision that created or renamed the class of members. Record the exact wording of the designation as it was adopted, since the form must reflect the name actually assigned and not a shortened version.
3. Complete form SH13. Enter the company name and registration number, then set out the name or designation given to the class and the date the assignment took effect. The form is short but must be accurate. Errors can lead to the register being wrong, which in turn can cause problems later.
4. Sign and file within one month. The Companies Act 2006 gives you one month from the date of assignment to deliver the notice to the registrar. Post the signed form to Companies House at the appropriate address for your jurisdiction, keeping a dated copy for your internal records.
5. Update your internal registers. Once filed, make sure the company's register of members, minute book, and any membership documentation reflect the new designation consistently. This avoids confusion at future meetings and keeps your internal and public records aligned.

Common questions