Every limited company registered in the UK must file an annual confirmation statement with Companies House. This essential document verifies that the information held about your company is accurate and up to date. Filing your confirmation statement on time is crucial to maintaining your company’s good standing and avoiding penalties.
| Feature | Annual Confirmation Statement | Annual Accounts |
|---|---|---|
| Purpose | Confirms company details (officers, shareholders, registered office) | Provides financial information about the company |
| Filing Deadline | Within 14 days of the anniversary of incorporation or last confirmation statement | Usually within 9 months of the financial year end |
| Filed with | Companies House | Companies House |
| Penalty for Late Filing | From £150 (depending on lateness) | From £150 to £1,500 (depending on lateness) |
| Cost | £13 online, £40 by paper (2026/26) | Usually free if filed online |
What Is a Confirmation Statement?
The confirmation statement, previously known as the annual return, is a snapshot of key company information. It confirms details such as your registered company address, directors, company secretary (if you have one), shareholders, and share capital. This statement helps Companies House keep your company record accurate and publicly available.
Filing the confirmation statement does not replace submitting your annual accounts; both are separate legal requirements. The confirmation statement focuses on company structure and ownership, whereas annual accounts report the company’s financial performance.
When Is the Confirmation Statement Due?
Your first confirmation statement is due within 12 months of your company’s incorporation date. After that, it must be filed at least once every 12 months, with a deadline 14 days after the anniversary of your last statement.
If you miss the deadline, Companies House will send reminders, but failure to file can lead to penalties or even company strike-off. It’s therefore vital to keep track of your filing deadline.
You can check your company’s next confirmation statement due date on the Companies House service or by searching your company number at GOV.UK.
How to File Your Confirmation Statement
Filing your confirmation statement is a straightforward process that can be done online or by post. Online filing is recommended as it is quicker, cheaper, and you receive immediate confirmation of submission.
Steps to File Online
- Log in to the Companies House WebFiling service using your company authentication code. If you don’t have this code, request it from Companies House.
- Review the current company information displayed and update any changes, such as new directors or changes in shareholdings.
- Confirm the information is correct and complete the statement.
- Pay the filing fee of £13 using a debit or credit card.
- Submit the confirmation statement and keep a copy of the receipt for your records.
If you prefer, you can file via paper form CS01, but this costs £40 and takes longer to process. The form is available on the Companies House website.
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What Information Do You Need to Provide?
The confirmation statement requires you to confirm or update the following company details:
- Registered office address: The official address of the company on record
- Principal business activities: Update your Standard Industrial Classification (SIC) codes if needed
- Details of directors and company secretary: Names, service addresses, dates of birth, and occupation
- Shareholders and share capital: Confirm shareholdings and any changes in the share structure
- People with significant control (PSC): Individuals or legal entities who hold significant control over the company
Ensure that all information is accurate and corresponds with your company’s internal records, as discrepancies can lead to queries or penalties.
Consequences of Missing the Confirmation Statement Deadline
Failing to file your confirmation statement on time can have serious implications for your company. Companies House may send reminders, but if you continue to delay, the following can occur:
- Late filing penalties: Although confirmation statements themselves do not carry automatic fines, persistent failure to comply can lead to enforcement action.
- Company strike-off: Companies House may start the process to remove your company from the register, effectively dissolving it.
- Impact on credit rating and reputation: Late or missing filings can damage your company’s credit score and public perception.
To avoid these risks, set reminders well ahead of the due date or consider appointing an accountant or company secretary to manage your compliance.
Key Takeaways
- The confirmation statement is a legal requirement for all UK limited companies, confirming company details annually.
- It must be filed within 14 days after the anniversary of the last statement or incorporation date.
- Online filing costs £13 and is faster and easier than paper submission.
- Accurate information must be provided on company officers, shareholders, registered office, and PSCs.
- Missing the deadline can lead to enforcement action and possible company strike-off.
- Use the Companies House WebFiling service or visit GOV.UK for official guidance and forms.
Can I file my confirmation statement early?
Yes, you can file your confirmation statement up to 14 days before the due date. Filing early helps avoid missing the deadline and any associated penalties.
What happens if my company details haven't changed?
Even if there have been no changes, you must still file a confirmation statement to confirm that the information held by Companies House is up to date. Simply confirm the existing details and submit the statement.
Where can I find my company authentication code?
Your company authentication code is sent by Companies House shortly after incorporation. It’s a 6-character code used to file documents online. If lost, you can request a new code from Companies House via their website.
Official Sources
* GOV.UK: Set up a business · * HMRC: Income Tax rates · * HMRC: Corporation Tax · * HMRC: VAT registration