How To Easily File Confirmation Statement in the UK
- Published: 9 October 2024
- 7 min read
- Running a Business
Heather Cameron
Business Writer
Heather believes in the power of great storytelling and is here to craft compelling copy that informs and inspires readers. With an extensive background in digital marketing, she has experience writing for various industries, from finance to travel. As Osome’s copywriter, Heather creates content that empowers entrepreneurs and small business owners to boost their business with expert guidance, helpful accounting tips and insights into the latest fintech trends.
A confirmation statement is a mandatory annual return that companies must file with Companies House to confirm their key details. This article will walk you through filing a confirmation statement, from understanding its purpose to avoiding common mistakes.
Key Takeaways
- A confirmation statement must be filed annually along with a Companies House fee to confirm key company details and maintain compliance.
- Timely filing is critical; failure to submit within 14 days after the review period can lead to serious consequences, including possible company dissolution.
- Utilising online filing services significantly reduces costs and potential errors, while professional and automated solutions can streamline the process and ensure accurate submissions.
What Is a Confirmation Statement?
A confirmation statement is a document that confirms the accuracy of a company's information on the Companies House public register. It is mandatory for all new and older companies to submit an annual return. This process ensures that public records are accurate and up-to-date, promoting transparency and compliance. The annual confirmation statement includes important details such as the registered office address, company officers, shareholders, and share capital.
Confirmation statements confirms that the basic company information is correct and up to date. To complete a confirmation statement, you simply need to check the information registered at Companies House and confirm that it is correct and up to date at that time. If you notice any differences, some changes can be reported separately through the confirmation statement, but not all. Changes such as the company's registered office, directors, or share capital must be filed using other relevant forms before submitting the annual confirmation statement. Filing accurately and on time helps maintain the integrity of any public record, ensuring compliance with the annual return requirements.
For a hassle-free experience, let our team file your confirmation statement, ensuring compliance and peace of mind. Contact us today for a tailored solution!
Key Deadlines and Review Periods
The timing of your confirmation date is crucial. The 12-month review period starts on the company’s incorporation date or the date of the last filed statement, ensuring the company name and details are up-to-date. Companies must file a confirmation statement no later than 14 days after the conclusion of this review period. Directors are legally responsible for ensuring the statement is filed on time, even if the task is delegated to a company secretary.
Failing to file a confirmation statement can have serious consequences. A company might be assumed inactive and face removal from the official register. While missing the deadline does not incur a direct financial penalty, continued neglect can result in the dissolution of the company.
Companies House sends reminders about upcoming filing deadlines, and email notifications are available to stay informed.
Required Information for Filing
Gather all necessary information, including shareholder details, before you file your confirmation statement. Confirm the registered office address, director information, shareholders, and share capital. For firms with shares, include the statement of capital trading status and shareholder information.
Ensure that details about People with Significant Control (PSC) and the company’s statutory registers are up-to-date. Review and confirm the SIC codes, which identify the company’s business activities.
Incomplete or incorrect information can delay processing through the Companies House, so verify all details in the company files before submitting the first confirmation statement. Keep a record of the last filed confirmation statement service for future reference and audits.
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How To File a Confirmation Statement
Filing online is straightforward and efficient, requiring an authentication code for verification. Gather all necessary information to comply with Companies House account requirements. The user-friendly online service allows you to complete the filing in a few steps. If adding new company information, make sure to complete all relevant parts of the form as you file online. When booking online, provide your identity card number, company number, or birth certificate details along with your date of birth.
Filing online is cost-effective, with an annual fee of £34. The online system often includes pre-populated data, reducing input errors and speeding up the process during the payment period.
For those who prefer even more convenience, software like Inform Direct can simplify the process further by seamlessly connecting with Companies House to retrieve and submit data.
Common Mistakes To Avoid
Filing confirmation statements can be straightforward, but common mistakes can lead to delays and complications. Key errors include inaccuracies, missing information, and incorrect signatures. These mistakes can disrupt the whole process, making it essential to double-check all details before filing confirmation statements.
To avoid these pitfalls, many businesses use professional filing services. These services ensure correct and timely submission, reducing the risk of penalties. Outsourcing saves time and provides peace of mind, allowing focus on other critical business aspects like preparing annual accounts. Feel free to contact Osome!
Filing for Dormant Companies
Dormant companies must also file a confirmation statement annually to verify accurate registered information, even if they qualify for a shares exemption. Starting in March 2024, dormant companies must confirm that their intended future activities are lawful.
Filing for a dormant or limited company, including limited liability partnerships, follows the same process as for active companies.This helps maintain transparency and compliance with Companies House regulations, even if the company is no longer trading.
Penalties for Late Filing of Confirmation Statement
Missing the filing deadline can have severe consequences from the Companies House. It constitutes a criminal offence and can lead to the company’s removal from the register and eventual dissolution. If not filed, legal action may be taken against the directors, exposing them to prosecution and potentially requiring them to pay fines.
Late filing can cause significant reputational damage, raising concerns among stakeholders about the company’s reliability. Submit within 14 days after the review period ends to avoid penalties and maintain good standing with Companies House.
Can You File a Confirmation Statement Early?
Yes, filing your statement through the Companies House ahead of time is possible and has advantages. It initiates a new 12-month review period from the filing date, which can be beneficial if you prefer to align your schedule with the financial year or other significant dates.
For instance, filing in September sets the next review period to begin in October, and updates the trading status of shares accordingly. Early filing provides peace of mind, ensuring your company’s information is up-to-date and compliant well before the deadline.
Cost of Filing a Confirmation Statement
The cost of filing varies by method. The online filing fee is £34, making it the most cost-effective option. Submitting by post costs £62, reflecting the administrative expenses associated with processing.
In summary, online submissions are generally cheaper and quicker, while paper submissions cost £62. Choosing the online option not only saves money on the Companies House fee but also reduces the chances of errors and delays.
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Benefits of Using Filing Services
Professional filing services offer numerous benefits. They file your statement and ensure it is accurate and submitted on time, helping avoid potential penalties. Experts handle the entire process, providing peace of mind and allowing you to focus on other business aspects.
Professional services also offer ongoing compliance support, keeping you updated with regulatory changes that might affect your filing requirements. Leveraging their expertise helps you maintain good standing with Companies House and private limited companies without the stress of managing filings yourself.
Automated Filing Solutions
Automated filing solutions streamline the filing process by reducing manual data entry and oversight. These solutions save time and ensure accuracy, helping both existing and new companies maintain compliance effortlessly.
Such software often includes features like direct integration with Companies House, simplifying and making the process more efficient. Adopting automated solutions ensures timely and error-free submissions, enhancing overall operational efficiency.
Summary
Filing a confirmation statement is a critical annual obligation for all companies. Ensuring timely and accurate submissions helps maintain good standing with Companies House for limited companies and LLPs and avoids potential penalties. Using online filing methods, professional services, and automated solutions can make it a simple process, providing peace of mind and freeing up valuable time for a business owner.
FAQ
What happens if you don’t file a confirmation statement?
Failure to file can result in penalties, and your company may be struck off the Companies House register.
Can I file the confirmation statement myself?
Yes, you can file your confirmation statement online through Companies House or by post, but it’s essential to ensure accuracy and timely submission.
Do dormant companies need to file a confirmation statement?
Yes, dormant companies still have the legal requirement to file annually to confirm their company details with Companies House.
How do I file a confirmation statement at Companies House?
You can file a confirmation statement via the Companies House portal or by submitting a paper form. You'll need to verify and update your company’s details.
When should I file my confirmation statement?
You should file within 14 days after the end of your review period, which starts from your incorporation date or the due date of your last confirmation statement. Timely filing is essential to maintain compliance.
You could file ahead of time if you need to update the Standard Industrial Classification (SIC) codes before the deadline, as it can only be changed through a confirmation statement.
How much does it cost to file a confirmation statement?
Filing online costs £34, whereas postal submissions are priced at £62. Therefore, online filing is the more economical and efficient choice.
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