Company Addresses

What is a proof of address?

A proof of address is a document that includes your full name and address issued by a trusted third party, such as a service provider. Common examples include utility bills, bank statements, or official correspondence. This document is evidence of your current address and is often required for identity verification.

Banks, financial institutions, and government agencies may request proof of address to confirm to ensure compliance with regulations and facilitate secure communication. 

Are proof of address in England and Wales part of anti-money laundering regulations?

Yes. Proof of address is essential under England and Wales's anti-money laundering (AML) regulations. It is typically requested alongside photographic identification, such as a passport or photocard driving licence, to validate an individual’s identity and ensure compliance with AML measures. Proof of address documents must usually have been issued within the last three months to be acceptable. Examples include a recent local council tax bill, bank statement, or utility bill.

When will you need proof of address in the UK?

Proof of address is required in several situations in the UK, including:

• Opening a bank account: Whether you are a UK citizen or a non-resident, banks will ask for proof of address as part of anti-money laundering (AML) measures and to comply with Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) regulations.
• Applying for credit: When applying for a loan, credit card, or mortgage, financial institutions require proof of address to verify your identity and assess your creditworthiness.
• Buying property: Proof of address is often needed to confirm one's identity and comply with legal and regulatory requirements.
• Acting as a guarantor for a tenant: If you are a guarantor for someone renting a property, landlords or letting agents may request proof of your current address to complete the guarantor process.
• ‍Accessing government services: Certain government services, such as applying for a visa, registering a birth, getting a driving licence or dealing with specific agencies such as the police, may require you to provide proof of address to verify your residency.

What can be used as proof of address when you just arrive in the UK? 

When newly arrived in the UK, providing proof of address without utility bills or other typical documents can be challenging. In such cases, the following alternatives may be accepted:

• A letter or statement from your employer confirming your name and address, provided you have a right to work share code.
• If you are a student, a letter from your university that confirms your residential address.
• A tenancy agreement, if you already have a place to live, serves as valid proof of address.
• Government correspondence, such as letters from HMRC or the NHS that include your name and address.
• An affidavit of residence, where you formally declare your current residence under oath.

How do I get proof of address in the UK?

Obtaining proof of address in the UK typically involves using documents you already have, such as correspondence from government agencies or service providers. Service provider documents should be no older than three months, while government-issued documents dated within the past 12 months may be accepted.

Acceptable proof of address documents issued in the last 3 months:

• Utility bills, such as gas or electricity.
• Bank statements or letters confirming account details.
• A letter from a solicitor confirming a recent property purchase or land registry records.

Acceptable proof of address documents issued within the last 12 months: 

• A mortgage statement from a recognised lender.
• A council tax bill from your local authority. 
• A rent card or tenancy agreement from a council or housing association.
• P45 or P60 documents related to income tax.
• HMRC correspondences, including self-assessment notifications or tax demands issued within the current financial year.
• An entry in the Electoral Register confirming your residence details.

How can I open a bank account in the UK without proof of address?

Opening a bank account in the UK without proof of address is possible through online or challenger banks. These banks have simplified account setup processes and often waive the requirement for traditional proof of address. Popular options include:

• Wise
• Monzo
• Starling
• Monese
• Zempler 
• Suits Me
  

These banks operate online via desktop platforms or mobile apps, offering a convenient alternative to traditional banking. To open an account, review the bank’s policies and required documentation, which may include basic identity verification like a passport or ID. 

Once you’ve chosen the right bank, download their app or access their platform and follow the steps to set up your account.

What documents are accepted as proof of address by major UK banks?

Unlike digital challenger banks, high street banks in the UK are traditional organisations that require proof of address to open an account. Commonly accepted documents include:

• Recent utility bills (usually within the last 3 months) showing your name and address.
• Official letters, such as those from HMRC, and tax bills that include your name and address.
• A letter from a solicitor confirming your recent property purchase or tenancy.
• A signed agreement for your current residence.

Each bank may have specific requirements, so it’s always best to check directly with the institution to ensure you have the correct documentation.

Can the document that counts as proof of address be used for proof of identity?

No, a document used as proof of address cannot independently serve as proof of identification. Proof of address supports identity verification but cannot replace proof of identity, which typically requires a photographic document, such as a passport or driving licence. While evidence of address adds credibility to the verification process, it cannot stand alone as a substitute for photographic identification. Likewise, a document that serves as proof of identity, cannot be used for both proof of id and address. 

Do proof of address documents need notarisation?

Proof of address documents generally do not need notarisation unless explicitly required by the institution requesting them.

5 Things To Know About Proof of Address UK

What is the post code in the UK?

A postcode in the UK is a 5 to 7-character alphanumeric code used in the mail delivery system. Each full postcode identifies a specific area, which can include multiple addresses or even a single delivery point. 

What is the UK postcode format?

A United Kingdom postal code is a two-part alphanumeric code (consisting of letters and numbers) used to identify specific locations for mail delivery. It typically contains 5 to 7 characters, each serving a distinct purpose. 

The two parts of the code are - 

• The Outward Code, or outcode, is the first part of the postcode and is 2 to 4 characters long. It always begins with a letter and may end with either a letter or a number.
• Inward Code, or incode, the second part of the postcode, follows a space always 3 characters long. It begins with a number and is used to pinpoint a more specific location within the outward code area.

The outward and inward codes are divided into six main components, each defining a specific level of mail delivery. Progressing from the outward code to the inward code narrows the focus, identifying increasingly precise delivery locations.

The main components of the codes include — 

1. Postcode Area

The first one or two letters of the outward code represent a postcode area, often an abbreviation of the main city or region, for example:

2. District Code

The district code typically comprises the first two to four characters of a postcode. For example, in L1, "L" identifies the postcode area as Liverpool, while "1" is the district code. This outward code, L1, encompasses a range of addresses and locations within central Liverpool, including shopping districts and public buildings.

Sometimes, the district code excludes a trailing letter to cover a broader mail delivery and sorting area. However, in other instances, the trailing letter is included to provide a more refined level of detail. This flexibility ensures efficient sorting and accuracy in mail delivery across different regions.

3. Sub-District Code

Sub-district codes are only used in high-density areas like parts of London, where more detail is needed due to population size or mail volume.

• They refine locations within a district and are included in the outward code when necessary.

4. Postcode sector

The sector is formed by combining:

• The postcode district (first part of the outward code).
• The space after the outward code.
• The first number of the inward code.

For example, in L1 8, the sector includes the district code "L1" and the first number of the inward code "8."

5. Unit or Delivery point code

The postcode unit is the final part of a postcode, consisting of the last two letters. This component provides precise location details. Each postcode unit typically represents:

• A street or part of a street
• A single address or a group of properties
• A single property or a subsection of the property
• An individual organisation (e.g., the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency)
• A subsection of an organisation

The level of precision within a postcode unit often depends on the volume of mail received by the premises or business. This ensures accurate sorting and delivery to even the most specific locations.

Examples of the postal code patterns include — 

See also: Address Line 1 And Address Line 2: Examples & Applications

What Is a US Zipcode?

A ZIP Code, the US equivalent of a postcode, is a 5-digit code used in the United States mail delivery system. It is designed to identify specific geographic areas to ensure accurate and efficient mail delivery.

How can you differentiate between the UK and US zip codes?

The UK does not use zip codes; instead, it uses postcodes. Both post and zip codes are vital for efficient mail delivery, but they vary significantly in length, format, structure, and specificity. 

See the table below:

How can I find my zip code or postcode in the UK?

Use the Royal Mail's Postcode Finder tool to lookup a UK code. This online service allows you to look up an address or part of it, and it will automatically populate the matching postcode for your location.

What is the UK's postal code? 

A UK postal code consists of 5 to 7 alphanumeric characters, divided into two parts: the outward code and the inward code, separated by a space. It serves as a geographical identifier to pinpoint specific locations for mail delivery. This structured format ensures accurate and efficient sorting and delivery across the UK.

How do sector and delivery point codes work within the UK postcode system?

Within the UK postcode system, sector codes and delivery point codes play essential roles in narrowing down locations for precise mail sorting and delivery:

• Sector: This combines the district code (part of the outward code) and the first digit of the inward code (e.g., SW1A 1 or E1W 3). It identifies a more specific area within the district, such as a neighbourhood or street cluster.
• Delivery Point Code (Unit): The final two characters of the inward code (e.g., AA or TD) represent the delivery point. This pinpoints an exact address, property, or group of properties, such as a single house, office, or organisation.

For example:

• Postcode SW1A 1AA:some text
  • Sector: SW1A 1 (narrow area within Central London).
  • Delivery Point (Unit): AA (specific building, such as 10 Downing Street).
• Postcode E1W 3TD:some text
  • Sector: E1W 3 (refined area in East London).
  • Delivery Point (Unit): TD (specific property or group of addresses).

This structure ensures a systematic approach to pinpointing delivery locations, enhancing efficiency in the UK postal system.

Infographic: UK Zip Code Explained

What goes in Address Line 1?

In the UK, Address Line 1 is the first line of an address form field and a key component that typically includes:

1. Building Number: The unique number assigned to the property on a street. For example, "152 – 160 City Road" has the building number 152 – 160.
2. Street Name: The name of the street where the property is located. In "152 – 160 City Road," the street name is City Road.

If a property has a registered building name, it can be used in place of the building number and should be followed by the street name on the next line. However, using a building number is generally recommended to avoid confusion during mail delivery. For clarity and precision, many people who include a building name also provide the building number and street address information.

A full UK address can look like - 

In the US, Address Line 1 typically includes the following information:

• Building Number: The unique number assigned to a property.
• Street Name: The name of the street where the property is located.
• Street Suffix: The type of street, such as "St" for Street, "Ave" for Avenue, "Rd" for Road, etc.
• Additional Address Details: If Address Line 2 is not available, Address Line 1 can include apartment or suite numbers, such as "789 Pine Street, Apt 4B."

Example:

Building Name: The White House

Address Line 1: 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue, N.W.

Address Line 2: Washington, DC 20500

This structure ensures precise and accurate mail delivery, with Address Line 1 providing the essential location information.

See also: Correspondence Address Vs. Residential Address

What is address line 2? 

Address Line 2 is an optional field that allows you to provide additional address details, such as apartment numbers, suite information, building names, or other specific location identifiers. While these details are especially useful for doorstep delivery services, they may not always be necessary during online checkout. Providing accurate information in this field ensures smooth deliveries and minimises errors.

Examples of details you can include in Address Line 2:

• Apartment number
• Suite number
• PO Box
• Room number
• Floor number
• Unit number
• Department number

Address Line 1 is often sufficient on its own, and adding Address Line 2 can confuse users who are unsure what information to provide, potentially impacting the user experience. However, there’s nothing wrong with including “address line 2” for complex addresses, as it provides a valuable option to ensure accurate delivery details.

How do I fill address line 1 and address line 2 fields?

The format may vary by destination country, but generally, address line 1 and 2 contain the following information:

• Address Line 1: This line contains the building number, street name, and suffix (e.g., "123 Elm Street, Apt 4B" in the US) and specifies the exact property location.
• Address Line 2: Includes the city, state (for the US), and postal or zip code (e.g., "New York, NY 10001").

Always confirm the specific addressing format the destination country requires for accurate mail delivery.

What is the importance of address line 1?

Address Line 1 is the primary component of an address, specifying the exact location where mail should be delivered, such as the house number, street number, and any applicable suffix. Address Line 2 provides additional details, such as apartment numbers or secondary location information, to further qualify Address Line 1. Together, they ensure accurate and efficient mail delivery.

What is a full postal address example?    

A full postal address includes more than just a PO Box; it also contains the street name, building number, and any other relevant details that enable precise physical delivery of parcels. This ensures accurate and reliable delivery to the intended location.

How do I use the address field while filling out online forms and applications?

The address field is divided into specific components to ensure accurate delivery when filling out online forms. Here's how to use each field effectively:

Address Line 1:

• Include the building number and street name.
• If you are in the US, include the street suffice. 

UK example: 152 – 160 City Road.

US example: 123 Elm Street, Apt 4B.

2. Address Line 2:
   • Use this optional field for additional information such as apartment numbers, suite details, PO Boxes, or other secondary location identifiers.
   • Example: "Suite 101" or "PO Box 456."
3. City and Postcode/ZIP Code:
   • Ensure you include the correct city and postal code.
   • UK example: London, EC1V 2NX.
   • US example: New York, NY 10001.
4. Confirm Address Format:
   • Verify the specific address format required by the destination country to avoid errors.

Providing complete and accurate information in these fields ensures efficient and precise delivery of mail or parcels.

City, state and zip code go to which address line? 

When filling out address details, the city, state, and ZIP/postal code should not go in Address Line 1 or 2. Instead, they are typically entered in separate fields provided below these lines in online forms.

‍

What is a correspondence address?

A correspondence address, also known as a service address, is the location where company officials including directors, secretaries, and people with significant control (PSCs), choose to receive statutory mail from authorities such as Companies House and HMRC related to their role.

As you consider getting a correspondence address, please note the following — 

• Your physical presence is not required — No company representative must be at the address.
• Flexible —You are not required to carry out your business or trading activities at the address. 

Authorised Acknowledgment — Any designated individual can acknowledge receipt of correspondence on behalf of a company official, streamlining communication processes.

What are the benefits of a correspondence address?

An official correspondence address is more than just a mailing location; it plays a vital role in defining your business operations and protecting your personal privacy. Benefits of having one include —

• Your official postal address ties you to a legal jurisdiction — As a company officer, your designated address establishes the legal framework governing your business and personal responsibilities in your official capacity. This address is critical in assessing your compliance and conduct.
• Provides privacy and security — Using a designated address other than your residential or business address helps protect your privacy. As a limited company director, your name, nationality, occupation, and service address are publicly accessible. To meet legal obligations while maintaining confidentiality, consider using a director address service for added security and peace of mind.
• Enhances credibility with a professional image — A prestigious central London address signals professionalism and accessibility, fostering trust and reliability. This strengthens your credibility and enhances the perception of your expertise and reliability in your professional role.

What is a residential address?

A residence is where you live independently or with your family for at least 183 days a year and is often used for official identification and legal purposes. It connects you to a particular jurisdiction and is usually required for various government processes, legal agreements, and identification documents. 

Legal reasons why a residential address is necessary include — 

• Legal residency requirements — A home address complies with legal residency stipulations requiring a minimum residency period for individuals to enjoy certain rights and obligations in the UK. 
• Taxation — Authorities may use your primary place of residence to determine your tax obligations and eligibility for benefits. For example, if you are a UK resident, you are subject to UK tax on worldwide income and gains. 
• Legal jurisdiction — Your home address determines the laws and regulations governing your life, including contractual obligations, property rights, and family law matters. 
• Government services — A valid connection to the UK as a resident determines your eligibility for government services such as education, healthcare, and social services. After the government conducts a census, public planning, budget allocation, and infrastructure development are determined mainly by the number of people living in a particular area and their characteristics. 

What is a residential delivery address?

A residential delivery address is where an individual lives and receives personal deliveries, such as mail and packages. It can also be used for both personal and official correspondence. However, Companies House will make this address publicly available when used for official purposes, especially as part of company formation requirements.

See also: Address Line 1 And Address Line 2: Examples & Applications

What is the difference between a residential and a postal address?

The difference between residential and postal addresses is their purpose and usage. In the UK, a residential address refers to the physical location where a person resides and is often recognised as their official residence. To qualify as a residential address, an individual must have lived there for a specific number of days.

On the other hand, a postal address is explicitly designated for receiving mail and parcels. Unlike a residential address, a PO Box address can be set up and used immediately, even if acquired on the same day. This flexibility makes postal addresses ideal for businesses or individuals requiring a separate correspondence address.

What is the difference between a residential address vs physical address?

A residential address refers to the location where an individual lives. In contrast, a physical address is a broader term that can refer to a business or residential address. It often highlights that the address is an actual location, not a PO Box.

Can I use my home address as my correspondence address?

You can use your home address as your correspondence address to register your company. However, remember that this address will be publicised on the Companies House register.

What is the difference between correspondence address vs commercial address?

Companies House requires each company official to maintain a correspondence address for receiving statutory mail from government agencies related to their role.

A commercial address, on the other hand, refers to a location used for business purposes. It can be the physical site where commercial activities are conducted or a trading address for receiving letters from partners and other businesses.

What is the difference between a mailing address vs correspondence address service?

The difference between mailing and official addresses depends on the context. In business administration, a correspondence address is where company officials can receive official mail, such as legal notices, government letters, and statutory mail. The address establishes a clear channel for official correspondence to reach the appropriate individuals within the company.

Can I use a virtual address as a correspondence address? 

Yes, and here is why. Despite the term 'virtual,' a virtual address is a tangible, real-world street address. It doesn't imply nonexistence but reflects its flexibility and ability to manage or access your correspondence through digital platforms. A virtual address operates physically, providing a genuine location for correspondence needs. The service includes mail forwarding.

How do I change the address of the correspondence with Companies House?

You can change your correspondence address with Companies House online or by post. Log into WebFiling with your email address and password to use the online option. 

Alternatively, you can amend the correspondence address of your company officials by post using the following forms —  

• CH01 – Change of director’s details
• CH03 – Change the details of a secretary
• PSC04 – Change of details of individual person with significant control (PSC)

What is the difference between registered office address and service address?

The main difference between the registered office address and the service address is in their functions and requirements. A registered office address is the official point of contact between the government and the company, while the service address is specific to company officials. Both are required as part of a company formation application with Companies House and are published in the public register. 

What is the difference between a correspondence address vs residential address?

A Correspondence Address is typically designated for receiving official, business-related mail and communication from government agencies.  It serves as a point of contact between the government and the officials of a company. On the other hand, a residential address refers to the place where an individual resides or lives. It is a personal address associated with one's home and is often used for various purposes, including official documentation, personal correspondence, and legal records.

Can you use your residential address as your correspondence address?

If you use your residential address as your correspondence or service address with Companies House, it's essential to know that this information will be publicly available. Such exposure may open you up to potential privacy concerns and unsolicited communications.

What's the difference between a correspondence address & a permanent address?

As the name suggests, a residential or permanent address is where you live for at least 183 days a year. Conversely, a correspondence address does not have to be a habitable space; any location that can handle and receive your mail can be a correspondence address. 

Can I use a correspondence address for both personal and business needs?

Yes. You can use a correspondence address for both personal and business needs. However, the director's address, referred to as the service address, will be publicly available. To maintain privacy, it's advisable not to use your home address. You can use the same address to receive personal and business-related correspondence.

Correspondence Address vs Residential Address Explained

As the name suggests, the director service address is provided by the individual directors, while the registered office address represents the official correspondence address of the company.

What Is a director's service address?

It is the address government agencies will use to send statutory correspondence relevant to the role of the director. Official letters from HMRC, Companies House, courts, the Office of National Statistics, and other agencies will be sent to this address.

Every director needs to provide this information during company formation or at the time of appointment. The address can be residential or commercial, but remember that Companies House will display it in the public register. We always recommend using a non-residential address to protect an individual's privacy.

What Is a registered office address?

Statutory letters in the company name will be sent to the registered office address. Please note that starting March 2024, owing to the Economic Crime and Corporate Transparency Act, which became law in October 2023, a registered office address must be a physical address, not a P.O. Box.

In addition to the office address, the Act also requires all companies to provide a registered email address. Companies House will use this email address to communicate with the company, and it will not be available to the public.  

Starting 4 March 2024, newly incorporated companies must provide a registered email address during the incorporation process. For existing companies, the requirement applies when filing their subsequent confirmation statement, beginning from a statement date on or after 5 March 2024

Can I use my home address as my director service address?

Yes. Technically, you can use your home address as your director service address. However, since this information will be publicly available on the Companies House register, it's essential to consider the implications. Using your home address may impact your privacy and expose personal details to the public. 

Opting for a separate director service address, such as the one provided by Your Virtual Office London, ensures a professional image, safeguards your privacy, and complies with regulatory requirements. Our solution allows you to maintain a level of separation between your personal and professional identity.

Can I use a virtual office address as my director's address?

Yes, using a virtual office address as your director's address is common and legal. You get to present a professional image for your business and streamline statutory communication, as the virtual office can handle mail and other communications on your behalf.

What is the difference between a registered office, business address, and service address?

The terms "registered office," "business address," and "service address" refer to different addresses associated with a company, each serving a distinct purpose. Here's a breakdown of their differences —

Registered Office Address

Also known as the legal correspondence address, it is the official address of a company or LLP used for legal and official correspondence, and with the appropriate permissions, you can use either a residential or non-residential address. Government agencies, regulatory bodies, and the public send statutory letters and official documents to this address. Such correspondence may include—

• Official documentation regarding changes in company structure or details;
• Official company documentation from Companies House;
• Legal updates, notices and summons;
• Compliance information and reminders;
• Correspondence from HMRC; OR
• Important notifications related to the company.

The law requires that companies maintain a registered office address, which must be a physical location in the country where the company is registered.

Business Address

Also known as a trading address, it is the general address associated with the company, used for general business correspondence from customers, clients, and suppliers. It can be a physical location or a virtual office. Unlike the registered address, you are not required to observe the exact legal requirements. There is no legal definition for a business or trading address. 

Service Address

Also known as the director address, it is the official address of company directors, secretaries, and other officers registered with Companies House. It is used for official communication related to the individual's role in the company.

Similar to the registered office address, having a service address is a legal requirement. It helps protect the personal information of limited company officers.

What is the difference between a home and a correspondence address?

The terms "home address" and "correspondence address" refer to different addresses associated with individuals and serve distinct purposes. The home address is the residential address where an individual resides. It is primarily used to identify the location of an individual's residence and is associated with personal matters.

The home address is used for various purposes, including personal mail and official documents, and as a point of contact for personal matters.

On the other hand, a correspondence address is designated by an individual for receiving official correspondence. Individuals may get a correspondence address if they prefer to receive certain types of mail or communications at a location other than their home address.