What is a confirmation statement?
A confirmation statement (formerly the annual return) is a document UK limited companies must file with Companies House at least once every 12 months. It confirms that the information held on the public register is accurate, including directors, shareholders, registered office address, and SIC codes.
How often do I need to file a confirmation statement?
You must file at least once every 12 months based on your review period. You can also file more frequently if company details change, such as when adding a director or changing your registered office address.
What is the deadline for filing a confirmation statement?
You must file within 14 days of your 12-month review period end date. Your review period start date is usually your company incorporation date or the date of your last confirmation statement.
What does the Companies House filing fee cost?
Companies House charges £50 to file online. Filing on paper costs £110. Our service includes the Companies House fee within our fixed price, so there are no additional charges.
Can I file a confirmation statement myself?
Yes, a company director can file directly via the Companies House WebFiling service. Many directors use an accountant to ensure all PSC details, shareholder information, and SIC codes are reviewed correctly before filing.
What is a PSC?
A PSC is a Person with Significant Control, defined as any individual who owns or controls more than 25 percent of the company's shares or voting rights, or who otherwise has significant influence or control over the company. PSC details must be kept up to date and included accurately in your confirmation statement.
What happens if I miss the confirmation statement deadline?
The consequences are serious. You can be fined up to £5,000, Companies House may issue a financial penalty, and your company may be struck off, which means it is dissolved and loses its legal status.
Do dormant companies need to file a confirmation statement?
Yes. Even if your limited company has not traded or had any activity, you must still file an annual confirmation statement. This is separate from your dormant accounts filing.
What is the difference between a confirmation statement and annual accounts?
The confirmation statement (CS01) confirms your company structure, including directors, shareholders, registered address, and PSC information. Annual accounts report your company's financial performance. Both must be filed separately each year.
Can you file if my confirmation statement is overdue?
Yes. If you have missed a filing deadline, GoForma can file your overdue confirmation statement to bring your company records up to date.
How long does the filing take?
We file once we have the information we need from you and your accountant has reviewed it. Companies House then processes the statement, and we send you confirmation once it is accepted.
Is a confirmation statement the same as an annual return?
Yes. The confirmation statement replaced the annual return in June 2016. It serves the same purpose of confirming public register information is accurate, but the format and filing process are now digital and streamlined.
