Small business accounting

What is the Deadline for Filing Annual Accounts?

Know when are your annual accounts due and penalty for late filing

Last updated
July 3, 2025

Company Accounts Filing Deadline

Filing company accounts to Companies House is determined by the date of business registration. All the new businesses must file their first accounts within 21 months after company registration or 3 months from the accounting reference date - whichever is longer. The deadline for company accounts filing for existing businesses is 9 months after the company's financial year ends.

Filing company accounts to Companies House is determined by the date of business registration. All the new businesses must file their first accounts within 21 months after company registration or 3 months from the accounting reference date - whichever is longer. The deadline for company accounts filing for existing businesses is 9 months after the company's financial year ends.

Company Accounts Late Filing Penalty

The following penalties for private limited companies will be imposed if you fail to file your accounts with Companies House on time:

  • Up to 1 month late: £150
  • 1 - 3 months late: £375
  • 3 - 6 months late: £750
  • More than 6 months late: £1,500

Watch below video by Companies House to find out the best ways to get your accounts in on time and avoid a fine:

Read more of our Small Business Accounting guides:

Online Accounting Service
Speak to a business accountant

Free advice for filing your company accounts.

Corporation Tax Calculator: Work out tour company tax
CalculatorsUK Limited Company Corporation Tax Calculator

Work out your corporation tax based on company profits generated during the 2024/25 tax year

Calculate now
Small Business Accounting Guide
Free download
Small Business Accounting Guide

Our small business accounting guide walks through absolutely everything you need to know if you're considering starting a limited company. From different taxes, limited company advantages/ disadvantages, how to pay yourself, and what your key filing requirements are.

Email address:

Thank you for downloading our free guide. We've sent you an email with your guide!
Oops! Something went wrong while submitting the form.
Online AccountantsSpeak to a business accountant
Speak to a business accountant

Free advice for filing your company accounts.

Woman standing in front of icons in a circle of accounting service icons for industries for contractors, ecommerce, tech and consulting

Small business accounting support for a range of industries

You get a named accountant you can speak to any time, plus we take care of all your essential filings. Whether you're looking for an accountant in London or online accountants, we've got you covered: