Filing your confirmation statement on time is a key responsibility for any UK-registered company or LLP. If yours is overdue, don’t panic - it’s something you can sort out quickly with the right approach.

Here’s what you need to know about dealing with a late confirmation statement. But first, let’s cover the basics:

What is a confirmation statement?

A confirmation statement is an annual update you send to Companies House to confirm your company’s details. It’s not a big job, but it is an important one.

You’re letting Companies House know that key information about your business - like your registered office address, directors, shareholders and business activities (SIC codes) - is accurate. 

Even if nothing at all has changed, you still need to file it. Missing the deadline can cause complications, so it’s best to keep on top of it. For a detailed breakdown of what’s involved, check out our in-depth guide to confirmation statements.

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When does it need to be filed?

The deadline for filing a confirmation statement is based on the company’s accounting reference date (ARD), which typically marks the end of its financial year. The statement must be submitted within 14 days of this date.

If you’re unsure how to complete the process, follow our step-by-step guide on how to file your confirmation statement.

Why does a late confirmation statement matter?

Just because there are no immediate fines for filing your confirmation statement late does not mean there aren’t consequences for it.

Filing your confirmation statement within 14 days of the end of your ‘review’ period is a legal requirement, so failing to do so and ignoring warnings can lead to:

• Criminal prosecution.
• Fines of up to £5,000 for directors.
• Director disqualification.
• And Companies House could strike your company off the register. This would prevent it from operating and freeze any assets associated. 

So as you can see, there are serious consequences to a late confirmation statement. 

How to deal with a late confirmation statement

Companies House will generally issue an automatic warning if you miss the deadline. Failure to act immediately can lead to serious action taken against the company and its directors. 

If you’ve missed the deadline to file, here’s how to handle it:

1. Get it sorted ASAP

Once you realise your confirmation statement is late, make getting it sorted a priority. The longer you leave it, the more complicated it becomes to get it sorted.

2. Double-check your details

Before you file, make sure your company information is up to date. This includes checking things like:

• SIC codes (Standard Industrial Classification) - a code that describes your business activity.
• All director details.
• Make sure the details of your company secretary, if you have one, are accurate and up to date. Not sure what a company secretary does? You can learn more about the role of a company secretary in our guide.
• Your company’s registered office address.
• Details of any shareholders and the share capital structure.
  
  

3. File it online

The quickest way to file your confirmation statement is through Company House’s online portal. It’s a straightforward process, and you’ll get instant confirmation once it’s submitted.

4. Ask for help if you need it.

If you’re not sure what to do, or if something isn’t clear, speak to your accountant or company secretary. They can guide you through the process and make sure everything is in order. 

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How to avoid late filings in the future 

Nobody wants the stress of chasing deadlines, so here are a few tips to stay ahead:

• Set a reminder: Note the due date - typically a year from your last filing or incorporation date - and make sure to set a prompt ahead of time.
• Sign up for Company Houses free email alerts: Up to four people can receive an alert to remind you when your confirmation statement is due. It’s free of charge and can help you avoid late filing. You can find full instructions on how to do this here. 
• Keep your records updated: It’s much quicker to submit your confirmation statement if all the details are correct. If you need to make changes, like updating your company’s registered office address, check out our step-by-step guide.
• Make sure you assign this task accordingly: If there are a number of directors or persons of significant control, then it’s worth making it clear whose responsibility it is to file the confirmation statement. 

Staying on top of your obligations

The best way to deal with a late confirmation statement is to avoid it happening in the first place. But if you’ve just received the first automatic warning from Companies House about a missed deadline, try not to panic. 

It’s important to act quickly and file it as soon as possible. By keeping your information up-to-date, you’ll avoid an unnecessary headache so your business can continue running smoothly. 

Need extra support? Our Limited company accounting service can help you stay organised with your filings, manage your accounts, and handle tax deadlines, so you can focus on growing your business. 

Find out more about our services

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