Ensure your company meets the 30th September accounts filing deadline with simple tips. Learn how to file online, avoid penalties, and comply with Companies House.
Whether trading or dormant, companies must file annual accounts with Companies House by the Accounts Filing Deadline. Missing the 30th September deadline can result in penalties and legal issues, so staying on top is essential. Here’s a quick guide to help you ensure compliance.
Most private companies must submit their financial statements to Companies House within nine months of the end of their accounting period. For businesses with a December year-end, the Accounts Filing Deadline is the 30th of September. Newly incorporated businesses or those with special circumstances may qualify for an extension, but check eligibility early.
Filing Accounts – The Basics
Companies can submit their accounts online or by paper, though paper filing is being phased out. The Accounts Filing Deadline is non-negotiable, so filing in advance is wise. The online process is simple and usually takes only 15 minutes. Leaving it until the last minute can lead to unnecessary risks, such as system errors or delays.
If you still choose to file on paper, it is worth noting that only the Cardiff office accepts paper filings. Postal delays won’t be considered a valid excuse for missing the Accounts Filing Deadline, so it’s safer to file online.
To file accounts online, a company authentication code is required, this may take up to five days to arrive. Request this code in time to meet the 30th September deadline.
What Documents Do You Need to File?
To comply with the Accounts Filing Deadline, most companies need to submit:
- Income statement (profit and loss statement)
- Balance sheet
- Directors’ report
- Auditors’ report (if applicable)
- Notes to the accounts
- A director’s signature
Smaller businesses and micro entities may be eligible to file simpler accounts. Small companies only need to submit a balance sheet and notes, while micro entities only file a balance sheet if they meet certain criteria for turnover, assets, and employee numbers.
Changes for Small and Micro Companies
While small and micro companies have reduced filing requirements, reforms may soon alter these rules. Upcoming changes could require more detailed accounts, making it important to keep track of your Accounts Filing Deadline and any legislative updates.
What if You Didn’t Trade This Year?
If your company was dormant during the financial year, you must still file dormant accounts by the Accounts Filing Deadline and submit a company tax return to HMRC. Failure to do so can result in penalties.
What Happens if You Miss the Deadline?
Missing the 30th September Accounts Filing Deadline can have serious consequences. Penalties start at £150 and may rise to £1,500 if accounts are filed more than six months late. Repeat offenders face doubled fines, and late filings can negatively impact your company’s credit score and ability to obtain financing.
Changes to Filing Rules
With the Economic Crime and Corporate Transparency Act 2023, Companies House is becoming more proactive in reviewing submitted information. Companies will need a valid registered office address and appropriate email address by their first confirmation statement after 5th March 2024.
Companies House is expected to fully transition to digital filing soon, so businesses need to prepare for this shift well before their Accounts Filing Deadline.
By staying organised, planning, and filing early, you can avoid the risks of missing the Accounts Filing Deadline and ensure your company stays compliant with Companies House regulations.
Read more here – 30 September filing deadline for accounts – GOV.UK (www.gov.uk)
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