What it means
SIC stands for Standard Industrial Classification. Companies House uses SIC codes to describe a company's main activity. They are public and appear on the register.
How many you can have
You choose at least one and up to four at incorporation. The first one should reflect your main trade. If you do several things, add them all.
Confirmation statement due?
We file your yearly confirmation statement for a fixed fee. The £50 Companies House fee is included.
Order a confirmation statementGet accounts quoteChoosing the right code
- Search the official SIC list on GOV.UK by keyword, for example "management consultancy" or "web design".
- Pick the code that best matches what you actually do.
- If you are unsure, choose a broader category rather than a wrong one.
Why it matters
- It tells banks, suppliers and HMRC what your company does.
- It can affect insurance or lender checks.
- A mismatch with your real activity can raise questions.
Changing it
You can update your SIC codes when you file your confirmation statement, or at any time online with Companies House. There is no separate fee for the change in a confirmation statement. See our confirmation statement service.
Does it affect tax
No. A SIC code does not change your tax. It is a description, not a tax category. VAT, Corporation Tax and PAYE depend on your activity and registrations.
Frequently asked questions
Can I have a SIC code that does not match what I do?
You should choose accurately. Incorrect codes can cause problems with banks and records.
Is 99999 allowed for dormant companies?
Yes, 99999 is the code for dormant companies.
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