Please note: The information below is correct as of 27/06/20. Due to the ongoing nature of the coronavirus situation, guidance is subject to change and, as a result, we would always advise you speak with a solicitor for specific advice.

In response to the coronavirus pandemic and subsequent UK lock-down, new regulations were signed into law on the 27th June providing extensions to deadlines for filing Accounts and Confirmation Statements with Companies House.

Accounts Filing Deadlines

From 27th June 2020, many companies whose accounts deadlines fall between that date and the 5th April 2021 (including those dates) will automatically receive a 3 month deadline extension. This extension will not apply to companies who have previously received a deadline extension for this period. The new legislation will apply as follows:

  • For public limited companies (PLCs), the filing deadline for a company which has not had an extension or shortened their accounting reference period will be extended from 6 to 9 months.

  • For private companies, the filing deadline for a company which has not had an extension or shortened their accounting reference period will be extended from 9 to 12 months.

  • For LLPs, the filing deadline for a company which has not had an extension or shortened their accounting reference period will be extended from 9 to 12 months.

  • For overseas companies who are required to prepare and disclose accounts under parent law, the filing deadline for a company which has not had an extension or shortened their accounting reference period will be extended from 3 to 6 months.

  • For SEs, the filing deadline for a company which has not had an extension or shortened their accounting reference period will be extended from 6 to 9 months.

There are some circumstances which may affect the length of your company’s accounts filling deadline extension, some of which you can find explained here.

It is important you clarify the new deadline for filing your company’s accounts to avoid any costly penalties; the Companies House register will be updated in stages and your can find your new deadline here, once that has been done.

Confirmation Statement Filing Deadlines

Businesses registered with Companies House will also be allowed more time to file their confirmation statement.

The deadline is currently 14 days from the end of the review period. This has now been extended to 42 days and will apply automatically to:

  • companies
  • LLPs
  • Scottish limited partnerships (SLPs)
  • Scottish qualifying partnerships (SQPs)
  • SEs

It should be noted that this extension applies to the time at the end of the review period, not the review period itself and, as such, the confirmation date on your statement should not be amended.

If you require any advice or assistance on the filing of documents with Companies House during COVID-19 and beyond, our corporate team has all of the necessary knowledge and experience to help. Please get in touch on 0845 287 0939 or contact us by email and a member of the team will get in touch with you.