Year-End Accounts: What UK Companies Must Submit and When

Running a UK business means staying on top of your year-end accounts—but don’t worry, it’s not as daunting as it sounds. Whether you’re a startup or an established company, knowing what to submit and when will keep you compliant and avoid nasty surprises (like fines from Companies House).

Let’s break it down, no jargon, just the essentials.

What Are Year-End Accounts?

Year-end accounts (or statutory accounts) are a financial snapshot of your business over the past year. They show:

• How much you earned (revenue)
• What you spent (expenses)
• Profit (or loss)
• Assets and debts

All UK limited companies must file company accounts with Companies House and HMRC—even if you’re dormant or didn’t trade.

What You Need to Submit (And to Whom)

1. For Companies House

You’ll need to file:

• A balance sheet – Shows what your company owns and owes.
• A profit & loss (P&L) statement – Reveals revenue, costs, and profit.
• Notes about the accounts – Extra details to explain the numbers.
• Director’s report (if you’re not a micro-entity).

Small companies and micro-entities can often submit simpler accounts.

2. For HMRC

Alongside your Company Tax Return (CT600), you’ll submit:

• Full statutory accounts (or abbreviated accounts if eligible).
• Any corporation tax due (normally 19% to 25%, depending on profits).

Deadlines: Don’t Miss Them.

Late filings = penalties. Here’s when you must file company accounts:

Filing Body

Deadline

Companies House

9 months after your financial year ends

HMRC (Corporation Tax)

12 months after your accounting period ends

Tax Payment Deadline

9 months and 1 day after your accounting period ends

 

Example: If your year ends on 31st March 2025, you must:

• File with Companies House by 31st December 2025.
• Pay any tax due by 1st January 2026.
• Submit your CT600 to HMRC by 31st March 2026.

What Happens If You File Late?

Companies House doesn’t mess around—late filings trigger automatic fines:

• Up to 1 month late: £150
• 1-3 months late: £375
• 3-6 months late: £750
• Over 6 months late: £1,500 (and possible legal action)

HMRC also charges penalties for late tax returns; it’s best to stay ahead of deadlines.

How to File Company Accounts (The Easy Way)

1. Use Accounting Software– Tools like Xero, QuickBooks, or FreeAgent can generate compliant accounts.
2. Hire an Accountant – If numbers aren’t your thing, a pro can handle everything.
3. File Online – Companies House and HMRC accept digital submissions (paper filings take longer).

Final Tips for a Smooth Filing

Keep records organised – Save invoices, receipts, and bank statements.
Set reminders – Mark deadlines in your calendar.
Check for exemptions – Micro-entities and small companies may qualify for simpler filings.

Bottom Line

Filing year-end accounts doesn’t have to be a headache. Know what’s required, stick to deadlines, and if in doubt, get help. Stay compliant, avoid fines, and keep your business running smoothly.

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