7 Questions About Filing Confirmation Statements, Answered If you run a UK limited company, you’ve likely heard of the confirmation statement. It’s one of those must-do tasks that doesn’t seem urgent, until it suddenly is. Missing the deadline or filing the wrong info can invite warnings, fines and sometimes even getting struck off the register.
But don’t worry. If the words “file confirmation statement online” leave you scratching your head, you’re not alone. Let us clear things up with answers to the seven most common questions.
- What is a confirmation statement, exactly? Think of it as your company’s annual “check-in” with Companies House. It confirms your company’s basic details like who the directors are, where your registered office is and who owns what shares. It’s not about finances (that’s your annual accounts). It’s about saying, “Hey, we’re still here, and this is who we are”.
- Do all companies need to file one? Yes, if you’re a limited company or an LLP (limited liability partnership) registered in the UK, you’re on the hook. Even if your company hasn’t traded or has no changes to report, you still need to file confirmation statement online. Skipping it can land your company in trouble.
- When do I need to file it? You need to file your confirmation statement at least once every 12 months. The deadline is usually the anniversary of your company’s incorporation or the date you last filed. Companies House gives you 14 days after that “review period” to send it in. Miss it, and they’ll start chasing you.
- What happens if I miss the deadline? First come the warning letters. Then your company could be removed from the register (yes, dissolved). Directors can also be hit with fines. It’s best not to let it get that far. Set a reminder or, better yet, get help from an accountant or company secretarial service.
- Can I file it myself? Absolutely, you can file your confirmation statement online through Companies House. It’s simple if your details haven’t changed. But if you’ve made updates to shareholders, SIC codes or your registered address, you’ll need to update those first. It can get a bit fiddly, so take your time or get support if you’re unsure.
- Does it cost anything? Yes, there’s a small fee: £13 if you file online, £40 by post. That covers your filings for the year, no matter how many times you update. Just remember, you still need to file it even if you already paid the fee earlier that year.
- What if nothing’s changed, do I still have to file? Yes. Even if nothing has changed, you still need to confirm that. It’s all about keeping Companies House in the loop. You’ll tick a box saying everything’s the same, submit it and you’re good to go.
Conclusion
Filing your confirmation statement might not be the most thrilling part of running a business, but it’s one of the easiest ways to stay compliant. A few minutes once a year can save you a major headache later on. So don’t put it off: log in, check your details and file your confirmation statement before the deadline creeps up.
Need help? You’re not the only one. Plenty of business owners lean on experts to keep filings on track. Sometimes, it’s worth having someone take that task off your plate.
