Companies House annual cycle

The two main annual filings

• Annual accounts: due 9 months after the end of your accounting period (21 months from incorporation for the first set, since the first period can be up to 18 months)
• Confirmation statement: due once every 12 months, with a 14-day filing window from your statement date

Annual accounts

Even small companies must file accounts at Companies House. Most small companies file abbreviated or filleted accounts — less detail, but the filing itself is mandatory. Late filing triggers automatic penalties from £150 (private company) up to £1,500 if more than 6 months late.

Confirmation statement

The confirmation statement (CS01) confirms the company's information at Companies House is up to date — registered office, directors, shareholders, share capital, PSCs, SIC codes. It's a snapshot, not a full filing of accounts. The fee is £34 online (or £62 by post).

You must file at least once every 12 months, but you can file earlier (which restarts the 12-month clock). Many companies just file each year on the same date.

Ad-hoc filings as things change

• Director appointments / resignations: within 14 days
• Registered office change: within 14 days
• Share allotment: within 1 month
• Mortgage / charge created: within 21 days
• PSC changes: within 14 days of company learning of change, then 14 days to notify Companies House

Strike-off risk

Persistently failing to file accounts or confirmation statements is a criminal offence and can lead to Companies House initiating compulsory strike-off proceedings. Once started, you can object — but it's a hassle and can affect your ability to operate.