Companies House Filings Explained: Confirmation Statements, Annual Accounts & PSC Register

Introduction: Why Companies House Filings Matter

Every limited company in the UK has legal obligations to Companies House. From submitting annual accounts to updating your company’s records, missing these filings can result in penalties, investigations, and even being struck off the register.

In this article, we simplify the main filing requirements for directors — the Confirmation Statement, annual accounts, and the People with Significant Control (PSC) register — so you understand exactly what’s expected and how to stay compliant.

Confirmation Statement: Your Company Snapshot

• What it is: A yearly snapshot of key company information (directors, registered office, shareholders, PSCs).

• When it’s due: At least once every 12 months.

• Why it matters: Keeps Companies House records accurate and ensures transparency for stakeholders.

Failure to file can lead to fines and the company being struck off.

Annual Accounts: Reporting Your Finances

• What it is: A financial summary covering income, expenses, profits, and balance sheet.

• Who files: Every company, even if it’s dormant.

• Deadline: Usually 9 months after the company’s financial year-end.

Late Filing Penalties (Private Limited Companies)

Companies House applies automatic fines if accounts are filed late:

• Up to 1 month late: £150

• 1–3 months late: £375

• 3–6 months late: £750

• More than 6 months late: £1,500

Repeat Offences: If accounts are filed late two years in a row, the penalties automatically double.

• Example: filing more than 6 months late two years running = £3,000 fine.

Escalating Consequences

Late filing doesn’t just mean paying fines. Persistent non-compliance can lead to:

• HMRC or Companies House scrutiny.

• Damage to your company’s credit rating.

• Risk of being struck off the register.

• In extreme cases, criminal prosecution of directors.

PSC Register: Declaring Significant Control

• What it is: A public record of individuals or entities with significant control over the company (e.g., holding more than 25% of shares or voting rights).

• Why it matters: Ensures transparency, helps prevent money laundering, and is a legal requirement under the Companies Act 2006.

• Updating the register: Changes must be reported promptly in the Confirmation Statement.

Failing to maintain the PSC register can result in criminal liability for directors.

Why Expert Support Matters

Keeping on top of Companies House filings may sound straightforward, but directors often underestimate the risks of missing deadlines or providing incomplete information. Errors can damage your company’s reputation and attract scrutiny.

At Wexley & Associates, we:

• Manage all Companies House filing deadlines.

• Prepare accurate Confirmation Statements and accounts.

• Ensure PSC registers are complete and compliant.

• Protect directors from penalties and reputational harm.

Stay Ahead of Companies House Deadlines

Companies House obligations are more than a box-ticking exercise — they are essential for your company’s legal standing and credibility. With the right support, you can stay compliant, avoid penalties, and focus on growth.

Contact Wexley & Associates today for expert Companies House compliance support.

References

• Companies House: Confirmation Statements

• Companies House: Filing your company’s annual accounts

• Companies House: People with Significant Control (PSC)

• Related Wex Insider article: Director Duties Explained: Avoid Penalties & Stay Compliant