Once a new company is formed in the UK, several government agencies require filings, with strict deadlines to avoid penalties:

Companies House. This is the primary registrar of all UK companies. Key filings include Confirmation Statement which is filed annually, it confirms the company's information is accurate (registered office address, directors appointments, shareholders, etc). The deadline is 14 days after the «confirmation date» (anniversary of incorporation or the date of the last statement). Late filing incurs automatic penalties. Annual Accounts which is a financial overview of the company's economical performance. Deadlines depend on whether the company is public or private and when its accounting reference date is. Generally, private companies have nine months from their accounting reference date to file, while public companies have just six months. Late filing penalties are tiered and can escalate significantly. Changes to Company Details (changes to directors' details, registered office address changes, allocations of shares, etc.), must be reported promptly. Failure to do so can result in another fine. Director Appointments and Resignations - also promptly, when directors are appointed or resigned (removed), although there's usually a 14-day window to file these. This is what you have to file to the Companies House.

HM Revenue & Customs (abbreaviated - «HMRC») is responsible for tax collection. HMRC filings include Corporation Tax Return which report the company's taxable profits and calculates corporation tax liability. It must be filed online within 12 months of the company's accounting period end and Corporation Tax must be paid electronically, typically nine months and one day after the accounting period end. Please mind, that there are interests charged on all late payments. PAYE («Pay As You Earn») - if the company employs individuals - it must register as an employer and operate PAYE. Regular submissions of payroll information (Real Time Information - RTI) must be made to HMRC on or before each pay day. Late or incorrect submissions can result in penalties. VAT Returns (If the company is VAT registered either compulsory or voluntary), it must submit VAT returns online, typically quarterly, and pay any VAT due by the deadlines. Again, penalties apply for late filing and late payment. Self Assessment (for Directors) might be filed by the firectors, especially if they have income outside of their salary from the company. The Pensions Regulator - if the company employs staff - it needs to comply with auto-enrolment duties for workplace pension. Regular declarations of compliance need to be filed with the pension regulator to avoid fines.

It's vital to keep detailed records of all transactions and filings and adhere to deadlines. Many companies use accounting software and/or hire accountants to help manage these obligations and ensure proper compliance. Ignoring these requirements can lead to substantial fines, legal actions, and even the striking off of the company from the Companies House register.

Last edited 20.04.2025