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How do you pay HMRC correctly? This fact-checked guide from Filing Accounts covers payment references, methods, and deadlines for Self Assessment, Corporation Tax, VAT, and PAYE.

What Happens If You File Company Accounts Late? Penalties Explained (UK Guide 2026)   Filing company accounts late is one of the most common compliance issues faced by UK directors. It often starts as a small delay but can quickly turn into penalties, warnings, and ongoing complications with Companies House. If you are approaching your deadline — or have already missed it — understanding exactly what happens next is critical. What happens if you file company accounts late in the UK? If you file your company accounts after the deadline, Companies House will automatically issue a late filing penalty. The longer the delay, the higher the penalty. Importantly, these penalties apply even if: Your company is not trading You are planning to close the company You were unaware of the deadline There is no automatic exemption simply because the company is inactive or small. Late filing penalties (Companies House) The penalty structure is fixed and increases based on how late the accounts are filed. Delay Penalty Up to 1 month late £150 1 to 3 months late £375 3 to 6 months late £750 More than 6 months late £1,500 If your company files late two years in a row, these penalties are automatically doubled. This is where many directors get caught — thinking a small delay will not have a significant impact. Why penalties happen even if your company is inactive A common misunderstanding is that dormant or inactive companies do not need to worry about deadlines. In reality, even dormant companies must still file accounts with Companies House. If you are unsure how this applies, you may find it useful to review guidance on dormant companies here:https://filingaccounts.co.uk/blogs/ Failing to file, even for a dormant company, will still result in penalties. What happens after you miss the deadline Once your filing deadline passes, the process is automatic. First, Companies House records the late filing. A penalty notice is then issued to the company’s registered office. If the accounts remain outstanding, the company may also receive warning notices. Continued non-compliance can lead to further action, including the company being struck off the register. At the same time, HMRC may also take action if corporation tax returns are not submitted. This is why it is important to act quickly once a deadline has been missed. Can you avoid a late filing penalty? In most cases, penalties cannot be avoided once the deadline has passed. Companies House will only consider appeals in very limited circumstances, such as: Serious illness Unexpected events outside your control System failures preventing submission However, reasons such as forgetting the deadline, being busy, or relying on an accountant are generally not accepted. Can you close the company instead of filing accounts? This is one of the most common questions directors ask. Closing the company does not remove your obligation to file accounts. If accounts are overdue, Companies House or HMRC may object to the closure. You can read more about this here:https://filingaccounts.co.uk/blogs/ In most cases, the correct approach is to file the outstanding accounts first, then proceed with closure. What if you are already several months late? If your accounts are already overdue, the priority should be to bring everything up to date as soon as possible. Delaying further will only increase penalties and risk additional action. At this stage, the focus should be: Preparing and filing accounts immediately Understanding the penalty level Avoiding further escalation 👉 If you are unsure where to start, it is better to get clarity early rather than wait:https://filingaccounts.co.uk/ How to file late accounts correctly Even if you are late, you can still file your accounts in the usual way. The key difference is that penalties will apply automatically. The process involves: Preparing the correct financial statements Submitting accounts to Companies House Ensuring consistency with any tax filings Accuracy is important, as incorrect filings can create additional issues. How long can you delay before serious action is taken? While penalties begin immediately after the deadline, more serious consequences arise if accounts remain unfiled for an extended period. This can include: Increased penalties Legal notices Company strike-off proceedings If the company is struck off, it may later be restored — and you may still be required to file all outstanding accounts. Common mistakes directors make Many late filing issues arise from avoidable mistakes. These include: Not being aware of the filing deadline Assuming dormant companies do not need to file Leaving accounts until the last minute Ignoring penalty notices Trying to close the company instead of filing Recognising these early can prevent unnecessary costs. A practical example A director misses their filing deadline by two months, assuming they will deal with it later. During this time: A penalty is issued Accounts remain outstanding Additional notices are received By the time the accounts are filed, the penalty has increased significantly. In many cases, acting earlier would have reduced both cost and stress. How to avoid late filing in the future Once you have resolved a late filing, it is important to avoid repeating the issue. Practical steps include: Tracking your Companies House deadlines Preparing accounts in advance Filing early rather than last minute Getting support where needed Consistency is key to avoiding repeat penalties. Need help filing your accounts? If your accounts are overdue or approaching the deadline, dealing with them early can save both time and money. 👉 We help UK directors: File company accounts quickly and accurately Handle overdue filings Avoid unnecessary penalties Stay compliant with Companies House 👉 Start here: https://filingaccounts.co.uk/ Frequently asked questions What happens if I file company accounts late in the UK?You will receive an automatic penalty from Companies House, which increases the longer the delay. Can late filing penalties be waived?Only in very limited circumstances where there is a valid reason. Do dormant companies get penalties?Yes, if they fail to file dormant accounts on time. Can I close my company to avoid penalties?No, filing obligations usually remain before closure. What happens if I never file accounts?The company

Can I Close My Limited Company Instead of Filing Accounts? (UK Guide 2026)   Thinking of closing your limited company to avoid filing accounts? What seems like a shortcut can quickly turn into a costly mistake. Many UK directors assume that submitting a strike-off (DS01) means they can skip accounts.In reality, closing a company does NOT remove your legal filing obligations — and trying to bypass them can lead to penalties, objections, and delays. Can you close a limited company without filing accounts? No — in most cases, you must file accounts before closing your company. If your company has traded, has overdue accounts, or owes tax, Companies House or HMRC can reject or block your strike-off application. Can You Close a Limited Company Without Filing Accounts? You can apply to close your company using a DS01 strike-off application via Companies House. However, directors are still legally responsible for ensuring: All company accounts are filed up to date All corporation tax returns are submitted Any outstanding tax or liabilities are settled If these are not completed, your application may be: Rejected by Companies House Objected to by HMRC Delayed or cancelled ⚠️ When You MUST File Accounts Before Closing You will almost always need to file accounts if: Your company has traded (even briefly) Accounts are due or overdue HMRC has issued a notice to file There are outstanding taxes or liabilities The company has bank activity or assets 👉 Closing the company does NOT remove these responsibilities. ✅ When You May Close Without Filing Accounts This only applies in limited scenarios: The company has never traded There are no transactions or activity No assets or liabilities exist Strike-off is submitted before any deadlines Even then:👉 Directors must ensure all declarations are accurate. 🚨 Real Example (Based on Common Cases) We regularly see directors attempt to strike off their company without filing overdue accounts. Typical outcome: DS01 submitted HMRC raises objection Penalties continue increasing Once accounts are filed correctly, the objection is lifted and the company can be dissolved. 👉 This is one of the most common compliance issues. 🚫 Can I Just Ignore Filing and Close the Company? No. Ignoring filing obligations can result in: Ongoing penalties Rejection of strike-off HMRC enforcement action Future restoration of the company 👉 Ignoring it usually makes the situation worse. 🚨 Late Filing Penalties (UK Companies House) Delay Penalty Up to 1 month £150 1–3 months £375 3–6 months £750 Over 6 months £1,500 👉 These penalties apply even if you plan to close the company. 💡 The Correct Way to Close Your Company Follow this process: File all outstanding accounts Submit final corporation tax return Pay any liabilities Apply for strike-off (DS01) 👉 This ensures a clean and compliant closure. ⏳ How Long Does It Take to Close a Company? Typical timeline: DS01 submitted → processed in ~2 weeks Gazette notice published 2-month objection period Company dissolved if no objections 👉 Total: 2–3 months 🔍 Strike-Off vs Liquidation (Key Difference) Option When Used Cost Complexity Strike Off No debts, simple closure Low Simple Liquidation Company has debts High Complex 👉 If your company has debts, strike-off is not appropriate. ⚠️ Common Mistakes Directors Make Assuming closure removes filing obligations Ignoring HMRC or Companies House notices Submitting DS01 too early Not filing final accounts Letting penalties escalate 👉 These mistakes are avoidable with the right approach. ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Trusted by UK Directors “They helped me file everything properly before closing — avoided penalties completely.”– Limited Company Director “Fast, professional and clear advice. Highly recommended.”– Small Business Owner “My strike-off was rejected before — they fixed it and got it closed properly.”– Verified Client 🚀 Need Help Filing Before Closing? If your accounts are due or overdue, handling them correctly is the safest move. 👉 We regularly assist UK directors with: Filing micro entity and final accounts Handling late filings and penalties Preparing companies for smooth strike-off Avoiding HMRC objections 👉 Start your filing here:https://filingaccounts.co.uk/ 🔗 Related Guides (Recommended Reading) Dormant Companies filing (guide) How to incorporate ltd company guide Recent companies house changes 2026 guide 👉 (Link these internally on your site) ❓ Frequently Asked Questions Can I strike off a company with overdue accounts in the UK? Usually no — overdue accounts can lead to rejection or objection. Do I need to file accounts if closing company early? Yes, if the company has traded or accounts are due. Can I dissolve a company to avoid corporation tax? No — HMRC can object if tax returns are missing or unpaid. What happens if HMRC objects to strike-off? The company remains active until issues are resolved. Can penalties continue after applying for strike-off? Yes, until accounts are filed or company is dissolved. Can I close a company that never traded? Yes, if no activity occurred and deadlines are not missed. Do I need final accounts before dissolution? In most cases, yes. Can a dissolved company be restored? Yes, and you may still need to file accounts later. Is it better to keep a dormant company or close it? Depends on future plans — both have obligations. Can I file accounts after applying for strike-off? Yes, and often this is required to proceed. ✅ Quick Summary (What You Should Do) ✔ Check if accounts are due ✔ File outstanding accounts ✔ Submit final tax return ✔ Apply for DS01 ✔ Ensure no liabilities remain 👉 This avoids penalties and delays. 🔴 Final Thought Closing a company is not a shortcut to avoid filing accounts. 👉 The safest route is simple:File first → then close properly 👉 Take Action Now Avoid unnecessary penalties and delays. 👉 Get your accounts filed correctly before closing your company:Filing Accounts

How Does Depreciation Work When Finalising Limited Company Accounts in 2026?   How Does Depreciation Work When Finalising Limited Company Accounts in 2026? Yes — depreciation is a non-cash accounting expense that spreads the cost of a fixed asset (such as machinery, vehicles, or office equipment) over its expected useful life. When finalising your limited company accounts, you must calculate and record depreciation correctly in the Profit & Loss account and Balance Sheet to show a true and fair view of your company’s financial position. Updated March 2026: Under FRS 102 (the main UK accounting standard for small and medium-sized companies), depreciation must be calculated systematically and applied consistently. Importantly, the depreciation figure in your accounts is not deductible for Corporation Tax — you claim Capital Allowances instead. With many businesses still adjusting to full expensing rules and the upcoming reduction in writing-down allowances, getting depreciation right at year-end is more important than ever. At Filing Accounts, we help directors and small business owners accurately calculate depreciation and prepare compliant year-end accounts every month. Contact us today for expert help with your final accounts and tax-efficient capital allowances claims. What Is Depreciation in UK Limited Company Accounts? Depreciation is the systematic allocation of the cost of a tangible fixed asset over the period it is expected to be used by the business (its “useful life”). It is not a cash outflow — the cash was spent when you bought the asset. It appears as an expense in the Profit & Loss account (reducing reported profit). It reduces the carrying value of the asset on the Balance Sheet through an “accumulated depreciation” account. Why it matters when finalising accounts: Depreciation ensures your financial statements reflect the real economic use of assets rather than showing them at original cost forever. Incorrect or missing depreciation can lead to overstated profits, non-compliant accounts, and potential issues with Companies House or HMRC. Official source: FRS 102 guidance on tangible fixed assets How Depreciation Is Calculated – The Two Most Common Methods Most UK limited companies use one of these two methods (you must choose a policy and apply it consistently): Method How It Works Best For Example (Asset £10,000, 5-year life, no residual value) Straight-Line (most popular for simplicity) Equal amount each year: (Cost – Residual Value) ÷ Useful Life Office equipment, fixtures £10,000 ÷ 5 = £2,000 per year Reducing Balance Fixed % of the net book value each year Vehicles, machinery that lose value faster early on Year 1: £10,000 × 25% = £2,500 Year 2: £7,500 × 25% = £1,875    Partial-year rule: If you buy or sell an asset during the year, you usually charge a full year’s depreciation or pro-rate it (check your company’s accounting policy). How Depreciation Is Recorded When Finalising Accounts At year-end you post this simple journal entry: Debit: Depreciation Expense (in the Profit & Loss account) Credit: Accumulated Depreciation (in the Balance Sheet) Example impact on final accounts: Profit & Loss: £2,000 depreciation expense reduces net profit. Balance Sheet: Fixed asset cost £10,000 minus accumulated depreciation £2,000 = £8,000 net book value. Step-by-Step Checklist: What to Check When Finalising Depreciation in 2026 Accounts Follow this practical checklist to avoid errors: List all fixed assets — include cost, date acquired, and current net book value. Confirm the depreciation policy — straight-line or reducing balance? Document it in your accounting policies note. Review useful life estimates — are they still realistic? (e.g., computers 3–5 years, vehicles 4–6 years, machinery 5–10 years). Check residual (scrap) value — most small companies assume zero, but review if significant. Apply partial-year depreciation — for assets bought or sold mid-year. Test for impairment — if an asset’s value has fallen dramatically (e.g., due to damage or obsolescence), you may need an extra write-down. Ensure consistency — the same method and rates must be used year after year unless there is a genuine reason to change. Separate accounting depreciation from tax relief — add back depreciation in your Corporation Tax computation and claim Capital Allowances instead. Pro tip: Most accounting software (Xero, QuickBooks, Sage) will calculate this automatically if you set up the asset register correctly. Depreciation vs Capital Allowances – The Crucial Difference Key point for UK limited companies: Depreciation in your accounts is not an allowable expense for Corporation Tax. HMRC instead gives tax relief through Capital Allowances (e.g., Annual Investment Allowance, Full Expensing, Writing-Down Allowances). Accounting depreciation → reduces reported profit in your statutory accounts. Capital Allowances → reduces taxable profit for Corporation Tax. This difference is one of the most common areas accountants adjust at year-end. Official GOV.UK guidance: Capital allowances Common Mistakes Directors Make When Finalising Accounts Forgetting to depreciate assets altogether (overstates profit). Using inconsistent methods year to year. Applying full-year depreciation to assets bought late in the year. Confusing accounting depreciation with tax capital allowances. Not reviewing useful lives annually. What Our Clients Say on Trustpilot “Filing Accounts explained depreciation clearly and made sure our year-end accounts were spot on. Saved us from tax mistakes!” – Anonymous, March 2026 (5 stars) “Professional service — they handled depreciation, capital allowances, and the full final accounts perfectly.” – Mark T., February 2026 (5 stars) “Quick and accurate year-end support. Highly recommend for small limited companies.” – Sarah L., January 2026 (5 stars) With our consistent 4.2/5 Trustpilot rating, directors trust us to get the details right. Frequently Asked Questions What is the most common depreciation method for small UK companies? Straight-line is the simplest and most widely used. Does depreciation reduce my Corporation Tax bill? No — you add it back and claim Capital Allowances instead. Do I have to depreciate every asset? Yes, for all tangible fixed assets with a useful life longer than one year (except land). What happens if I get depreciation wrong in my accounts? It can lead to inaccurate profit figures, non-compliant accounts, and potential issues with Companies House or HMRC. Can Filing Accounts help with my year-end depreciation and accounts? Yes —

How do you register a limited company in the UK in 2026? This guide from Filing Accounts covers the step-by-step incorporation process, the new £100 fee, director ID verification, and common mistakes to avoid.

How to Find Your Corporation Tax Payment Reference (CT Payment Reference) UK 2026   How to Find Your Corporation Tax Payment Reference (CT Payment Reference) UK 2026 If you need to pay Corporation Tax for your UK limited company, you must use the correct 17-character Corporation Tax payment reference (often called the CT payment reference). Using the wrong reference can delay your payment being allocated correctly, leading to unnecessary interest charges or reminders from HMRC. Updated March 2026: Your CT payment reference is unique to each accounting period. It is usually a 17-character code starting with your 10-digit Corporation Tax UTR (Unique Taxpayer Reference), followed by specific codes for the period. The easiest ways to find it are through your HMRC online account or official HMRC letters. At Filing Accounts, we help directors locate their CT payment references quickly and ensure payments are made correctly to avoid penalties. Contact us today for help with your Corporation Tax payment or full CT600 filing. What Is a Corporation Tax Payment Reference? The Corporation Tax payment reference (also called CT payment reference) is a 17-character code that HMRC uses to match your payment to the right company and the correct accounting period. It is different from your 10-digit Corporation Tax UTR (which identifies the company overall). The reference changes for every accounting period, so you must use the exact one for the year you are paying. Example format: 1234567890A00101A First 10 digits = Your Company’s Corporation Tax UTR Next characters = Accounting period identifiers and check digits Using the correct reference ensures your payment is credited on time and avoids confusion. Official GOV.UK guidance: Pay your Corporation Tax bill Why the Correct CT Payment Reference Matters Wrong reference → Payment may be allocated to the wrong period or company. This can trigger late payment interest (currently around 7.75%) even if you paid on time. HMRC may still send reminders or penalties. Many directors make this mistake when paying by bank transfer or Bacs, especially for the first time. How to Find Your Corporation Tax Payment Reference – Step by Step (2026) Here are the most reliable methods, ranked from easiest to most time-consuming: 1. Through Your HMRC Online Account (Fastest & Recommended) Log in to your Government Gateway / HMRC online account. Select Corporation Tax. Choose View account or View Corporation Tax statement. Select the relevant accounting period. Your 17-character payment reference will be displayed clearly. This is the quickest method and works even if you haven’t received any letters yet. 2. On Official HMRC Letters Look for these documents (sent to your company’s registered address): Notice to deliver your Company Tax Return (CT603 or similar) Any payment reminder or payslip from HMRC Previous CT600 filing acknowledgements The 17-character reference is usually printed prominently on the payslip section. 3. Ask Your Accountant or Agent If you use an accountant or agent with authorisation on your HMRC account, they can view and provide the exact reference instantly. 4. Contact HMRC Directly Call the Corporation Tax helpline: 0300 200 3410 Have your: Company name Company registration number 10-digit Corporation Tax UTR ready HMRC can confirm the reference over the phone, but expect wait times. How the Corporation Tax Payment Reference Works It is accounting period specific — you need a new one for each year-end. When paying online (Faster Payments, CHAPS, Bacs) or by bank transfer, enter the full 17-character code exactly in the reference field. For cheque payments: Write the reference on the back of the cheque. HMRC accepts the payment based on the date it leaves your bank account (as long as it’s a weekday). Important 2026 note: Always double-check the reference matches the exact accounting period you are paying for. Payments made with the wrong reference can take weeks to reallocate. Common Mistakes When Using the CT Payment Reference Using only the 10-digit UTR instead of the full 17-character code. Copying an old reference from a previous year. Paying without confirming the reference in the HMRC online account. Assuming the reference stays the same forever. These errors are among the top reasons directors receive unexpected late payment reminders. What Our Clients Say on Trustpilot “Filing Accounts quickly found my CT payment reference and helped me pay on time. Saved me from interest charges!” – Anonymous, February 2026 (5 stars) “Clear guidance on the 17-digit reference. Professional and fast service.” – Mark T., March 2026 (5 stars) “They sorted my Corporation Tax payment reference and filing in one go. Highly recommend.” – Sarah L., January 2026 (5 stars) With our consistent 4.2/5 Trustpilot rating, directors trust us to handle these details correctly. Frequently Asked Questions What is the difference between Corporation Tax UTR and payment reference? The UTR is a 10-digit code that identifies your company. The payment reference is a 17-character code used specifically when making a payment for a particular accounting period. Do I need a different reference for each year? Yes — the reference changes with each accounting period. What if I can’t find my CT payment reference? Log into your HMRC online account first. If still stuck, call HMRC on 0300 200 3410 with your company details. Can I pay Corporation Tax without the reference? Technically possible via some methods, but it risks the payment not being allocated correctly. Always use the full 17-character reference. Official GOV.UK resources: Pay your Corporation Tax bill Pay Corporation Tax by bank transfer or at your bank Need Help Finding Your CT Payment Reference or Paying Corporation Tax? Don’t risk delays or extra interest. Filing Accounts can locate your exact Corporation Tax payment reference, prepare your CT600, and ensure your payment is made correctly and on time. Contact us today or book a free consultation — we’ll take care of your Corporation Tax obligations efficiently.

What Is an Accounting Reference Date (ARD) and How Do You Change It? updated March 2026   Yes — every UK limited company has an Accounting Reference Date (ARD), which is the official end date of its financial year. It determines when you must prepare and file your annual accounts with Companies House and your Corporation Tax return with HMRC. Updated March 2026: Your ARD is automatically set by Companies House as the last day of the month in which the anniversary of your company’s incorporation falls. For most companies, this creates a standard 12-month financial year, but you can change it (shorten or extend) using form AA01 — provided you act before the accounts filing deadline and follow the strict rules on extensions. Changing your ARD is a common request among new directors who want to align their year-end with business cycles, tax planning, or group companies. At Filing Accounts, we regularly help clients change their ARD safely and on time while avoiding penalties. Contact us today for expert guidance and to handle the change for you. What Exactly Is an Accounting Reference Date (ARD)? The Accounting Reference Date (ARD) is the date on which your company’s financial year ends. It is also commonly called your year-end or accounting year-end. Your annual statutory accounts must be prepared up to this date (or up to 7 days either side). It directly affects your filing deadlines with Companies House and HMRC. For a new company, Companies House automatically sets the first ARD as the last day of the month in which the first anniversary of incorporation falls. Example: Company incorporated on 15 March 2025 → First ARD is 31 March 2026 (last day of the month of the first anniversary). Subsequent years would normally end on 31 March each year. Official source: Companies House guidance on accounting reference dates Why Does the ARD Matter for Your Limited Company? Filing deadlines: Accounts must reach Companies House 9 months after the ARD (21 months for the first set of accounts). Corporation Tax: Your CT600 return is due 12 months after the ARD, with payment due 9 months and 1 day after. Business planning: Aligning your ARD with your busiest or quietest period makes accounting and tax planning much easier. Group alignment: Many companies change their ARD to match parent or subsidiary companies. Changing the ARD can give you extra time to prepare accounts or bring your year-end forward for better cash-flow management. How to Change Your Accounting Reference Date (ARD) in 2026 You can change the ARD for the current financial year or the immediately previous one, but not if accounts for that period are already overdue. Key Rules for Changing ARD (2026) Shortening the period: Allowed as many times as you want. Extending the period: Maximum 18 months (unless the company is in administration). You can only extend once every 5 years in most cases. You cannot change the ARD if accounts are late. Step-by-Step Guide: How to Change Your ARD Decide on the new ARD Choose a sensible date that suits your business (many choose 31 December, 31 March, 30 June or 30 September). Check you are still within the allowed window The change must be filed before the accounts filing deadline for the period you want to change. Prepare Form AA01 This is the official “Change of accounting reference date” form. File the form with Companies House Online (recommended – fastest): Use the Companies House WebFiling service or the online change service. You’ll need your company authentication code or GOV.UK One Login. By post: Download and complete form AA01 and send it to the address on the form. Companies House processes the change Online changes are usually confirmed within days. You can then check the updated ARD on your company’s public record at Find and update company information. Official form and guidance: Change your company’s year end (GOV.UK) Form AA01 – Change of accounting reference date Pro tip: Always get director approval (via board resolution) before filing, even though the form only needs one signature. What Happens After You Change the ARD? Your new filing deadlines update automatically. If you shortened the period, you may need to file accounts sooner. If you extended it, you get extra time (up to 18 months maximum). The change may also affect your Corporation Tax accounting period — check with HMRC if needed. Common Mistakes When Changing ARD Filing the change after the accounts deadline → rejected. Trying to extend more than once in 5 years without qualifying exemption. Forgetting that the change only applies to the current or previous period. Not updating internal records or software after approval. What Our Clients Say on Trustpilot “Filing Accounts helped us change our ARD smoothly and explained everything clearly. Saved us from a tight deadline!” – Anonymous, February 2026 (5 stars) “Professional and quick service for our accounting reference date change. Highly recommended.” – Mark T., March 2026 (5 stars) “They handled the AA01 filing and made sure we stayed fully compliant.” – Sarah L., January 2026 (5 stars) Our consistent 4.2/5 Trustpilot rating shows we deliver reliable support for these important changes. Frequently Asked Questions What is the default ARD for a new company? It is automatically set as the last day of the month in which the first anniversary of incorporation falls. Can I change my ARD more than once? Yes for shortening. For extending, only once every 5 years in most cases. Do I need an accountant to change my ARD? No — you can do it yourself online. However, professional help ensures you avoid mistakes that could delay your filing deadlines. How long does it take for the change to be approved? Online submissions are usually processed within a few working days. Will changing my ARD affect my tax obligations? It may shift your Corporation Tax deadlines — always check with HMRC or your accountant. Official GOV.UK resources: Change your company’s year end Form AA01 guidance Life of a company –

Can a Dormant Company Have a Bank Account and Still File Dormant Accounts? updated March 2026   Yes — a dormant company can have a bank account and still file dormant accounts with Companies House, but only if no significant accounting transactions occur through it during the financial year. Updated March 2026: Having the account itself does not break dormancy. However, even a tiny amount of bank interest, monthly maintenance fees, or any other transaction will usually mean the company is no longer considered dormant for Companies House purposes — and definitely not for HMRC Corporation Tax. Many directors keep a bank account open “just in case” and are surprised when it triggers full accounts and a Corporation Tax return. At Filing Accounts, we help hundreds of directors every year maintain proper dormant status while safely managing any necessary bank accounts. Contact us today for a free dormancy check and fixed-price dormant accounts filing. Tailored Tutoring offers expert private tutoring services designed to help students improve grades, boost confidence, and reach their full academic potential. What Does “Dormant” Actually Mean for Companies House? Companies House uses a very specific definition: A company is dormant if it has had no significant accounting transactions in the financial year. Significant accounting transactions = anything that must be recorded in the company’s accounting records (e.g. sales, purchases, expenses, bank interest received, bank charges paid). Transactions that do NOT break dormancy (official exemptions): Filing fees paid to Companies House Late filing penalties Money paid for shares when the company was first incorporated Official source: Companies House guidance – Dormant for Companies House Can a Dormant Company Have a Bank Account? (The Practical Answer) Yes — technically. Opening or maintaining a bank account is not itself a “transaction”. The account can sit open with a zero or nominal balance. But in practice it is risky. Most banks automatically: Charge monthly or quarterly maintenance fees Pay interest (even a few pence) These small movements are considered significant accounting transactions by Companies House and will break dormant status. Allowed vs Not Allowed Transactions (2026 Rules) Transaction Type Allowed for Dormant Status? What Happens If It Occurs? Bank account exists (zero activity) Yes Company remains dormant Bank interest received No Breaks dormancy → full accounts + CT600 required Bank maintenance/charges No Breaks dormancy Companies House filing fee Yes Allowed Late filing penalty Yes Allowed Share capital paid on incorporation Yes Allowed Any trading income/expense No Company becomes active    Key difference: Companies House looks only at significant accounting transactions. HMRC is stricter — any income at all (including bank interest) means the company is no longer dormant for Corporation Tax and must file a CT600 return. Step-by-Step: How to Keep a Bank Account and Still File Dormant Accounts Safely Open or keep the account only if absolutely necessary Many directors choose to close the business bank account entirely to eliminate risk. Monitor for automatic transactions Contact your bank and request “no interest” or “no charges” if possible (some banks allow this for dormant accounts). Check the balance regularly Ensure the account shows zero activity every quarter. Prepare dormant accounts as normal Use the simple online template showing only share capital (and possibly a nominal cash balance if the account is held). File with Companies House Submit dormant accounts within 9 months of your accounting reference date (21 months for first accounts). Director ID verification is mandatory. File your Confirmation Statement (CS01) Still required every year (£50 fee in 2026). Notify HMRC separately Tell HMRC the company is dormant so they do not send you a Corporation Tax return. Pro tip: If your dormant company already has a bank account with even £1 of interest showing, it is safer to file as a non-trading (non-dormant) company rather than risk rejection or penalties. Deadlines & Penalties for Dormant Accounts Filing 2026 How Late Penalty (Private Limited Company) Up to 1 month £150 1–3 months £375 3–6 months £750 Over 6 months £1,500    Penalties double if you are late two years running. Persistent failure can lead to compulsory strike-off. Official guidance: Preparing and filing Companies House accounts Common Mistakes Directors Make with Dormant Bank Accounts Leaving the account open and forgetting about small monthly charges Assuming “a few pence of interest doesn’t matter” Not notifying HMRC of dormancy (leading to unexpected CT600 demands) Forgetting the annual CS01 filing (£50 fee) Trying to file dormant accounts when bank interest has already been credited What Our Clients Say on Trustpilot “Filing Accounts checked our dormant company with a bank account and confirmed we could still file dormant accounts safely. Super quick and clear advice!” – Anonymous, March 2026 (5 stars) “They handled everything including the bank account review. No stress, no penalties. Brilliant service.” – David R., February 2026 (5 stars) “Saved us from accidentally breaking dormancy. Highly recommend for dormant filings.” – Sarah L., January 2026 (5 stars) With a consistent 4.2/5 Trustpilot rating, directors trust us to keep their companies compliant. Frequently Asked Questions Can my dormant company keep its bank account open? Yes, as long as there are zero transactions (no interest, no charges). What if my bank account earns interest? The company is no longer dormant for Companies House or HMRC. You will need to file full (non-dormant) accounts and a Corporation Tax return. Do I still need to file a CS01 if the company has a bank account? Yes — the Confirmation Statement is required every year regardless of dormancy. Is it better to close the bank account? In most cases, yes. It removes all risk of accidental transactions. Can Filing Accounts handle this for me? Absolutely. We review your bank situation, confirm dormancy status, and file everything compliantly. Official GOV.UK resources: Dormant for Companies House Dormant for Corporation Tax Filing dormant company accounts Ready to Keep Your Dormant Company Fully Compliant? Don’t risk accidental transactions breaking your dormant status. Let Filing Accounts review your bank account situation and file your dormant accounts quickly and correctly in

Do Dormant Companies Need to File Accounts? (Official Answer) – (updated March 2026)   Yes — dormant companies must file annual accounts with Companies House every year, even if the company has never traded, has no income, no expenses, and zero activity. Updated March 2026: Dormant companies file simplified dormant accounts (a basic balance sheet only) within 9 months of their accounting reference date (or 21 months for first accounts). Failure to file triggers automatic late filing penalties starting at £150, rising to £1,500, and can ultimately lead to the company being struck off the register. At Filing Accounts, we specialise in dormant accounts filing for UK limited companies. We handle everything quickly, accurately, and in full compliance with the latest Companies House rules (including director ID verification). Contact us today for a fast, fixed-price quote and peace of mind. What Is a Dormant Company According to Companies House? Companies House defines a company as dormant if it has had no “significant” accounting transactions during the financial year. Significant transactions do NOT include: Filing fees or penalties paid to Companies House Money paid for shares on incorporation Late filing penalties This is different from HMRC’s definition of dormant for Corporation Tax purposes (which may allow you to skip the CT600 return). Important 2026 note: Even if your company is dormant for both Companies House and HMRC, you still have filing obligations with Companies House. Do Dormant Companies Need to File Accounts? (Official Answer) Yes. Official GOV.UK guidance is crystal clear: “All companies must file annual accounts with Companies House. This includes dormant companies.” You cannot avoid this requirement simply because the company is inactive. What Must Dormant Companies File in 2026? Filing Requirement What It Is Deadline (2026) Cost (Digital) Notes Dormant Company Accounts Simplified balance sheet only 9 months after ARD (21 months first year) Free Online template via WebFiling Confirmation Statement (CS01) Updates directors, shareholders, PSC Within 14 days of review period (annual) £50 Must include verified director ID Corporation Tax Return Usually not required if truly dormant N/A (notify HMRC of dormancy) N/A Confirm status with HMRC    Key change in 2026: From 1 April 2026, accounts and CT returns are filed separately (the old joint service has closed). Step-by-Step: How to File Dormant Accounts with Companies House in 2026 Confirm your company qualifies as dormant Review your records — no significant transactions in the year. Check director ID verification status All directors and PSCs must be verified (mandatory since November 2025). If not verified, your filing will be rejected. Prepare the dormant accounts Simple balance sheet (usually shows only share capital). No profit & loss account or detailed notes required. Directors’ statement confirming dormancy and exemption from audit. File online via Companies House WebFiling Log in with your authentication code. Select “Dormant company accounts”. Upload or complete the online template. Submit before the deadline. File your Confirmation Statement (CS01) at the same time or separately. Notify HMRC (if needed) Tell HMRC your company is dormant so they don’t expect a CT600. Pro tip: Filing dormant accounts is quick and free when done correctly online — but many directors still miss deadlines or make small errors that trigger penalties. Deadlines & Penalties for Dormant Accounts Filing How Late Penalty (Private Company) Up to 1 month £150 1–3 months £375 3–6 months £750 Over 6 months £1,500    Penalties double if you’re late two years in a row. Repeated failure can lead to compulsory strike-off. Official source: Companies House late filing penalties guidance Common Mistakes Directors Make with Dormant Companies Thinking “dormant = no filing” — this is the #1 error. Forgetting the Confirmation Statement (£50 fee). Missing ID verification (filings rejected). Not notifying HMRC of dormancy. Using paper forms instead of online (slower and error-prone). Why Use a Professional Service for Dormant Accounts Filing? While you can do it yourself, using an expert service like Filing Accounts gives you: Guaranteed on-time filing Full compliance with 2026 ID verification rules Peace of mind (no risk of penalties or strike-off) Fixed, affordable pricing We’ve helped hundreds of directors keep their dormant companies in good standing. What Our Clients Say on Trustpilot “Filing Accounts sorted my dormant company accounts in minutes. No stress, no penalties. Brilliant service!” – Anonymous, March 2026 (5 stars) “Super quick and professional. Handled everything including CS01 and ID verification. Highly recommend.” – David P., February 2026 (5 stars) “Saved me from late filing headaches. Excellent value for dormant accounts.” – Sarah M., January 2026 (5 stars) Our consistent 4.2/5 Trustpilot rating reflects the trust directors place in us. Frequently Asked Questions Do I need to file a full set of accounts if my company is dormant? No — just the simplified dormant accounts (balance sheet only). What if my dormant company has never traded? You can use the simple online WebFiling template — it’s the easiest option. Do I still need to file a Confirmation Statement? Yes — every year, regardless of dormancy. What happens if I don’t file? Automatic penalties + risk of company strike-off. Can Filing Accounts handle this for me? Absolutely. Get your free quote here. Official GOV.UK guidance: Dormant companies and accounts Preparing and filing accounts File dormant accounts online Ready to File Your Dormant Accounts Without Stress? Don’t risk penalties or strike-off. Let Filing Accounts take care of your dormant company filings in 2026 — quickly, compliantly, and affordably. Contact us today or book a free consultation and we’ll handle everything for you.

Received an HMRC letter about savings interest? This fact-checked 2026 guide from Filing Accounts explains the Personal Savings Allowance, why these letters are sent, and exactly how to respond.