Question 1

What does it mean when a company has an overdue filing?

Accepted Answer

An overdue filing means the company has missed a legal deadline to submit documents to Companies House. For annual accounts, this means the company has not filed its financial statements on time. For a confirmation statement, it means the company has not confirmed its registered details within the required period. Both are legal obligations for UK companies under the Companies Act 2006.

Question 2

What are the penalties for late filing at Companies House?

Accepted Answer

Companies House imposes automatic late filing penalties for overdue accounts. For private companies, fines range from £150 (up to 1 month late) to £1,500 (more than 6 months late). For public companies, fines range from £750 to £7,500. If a company repeatedly fails to file, Companies House can strike it off the register, making the directors personally liable for the company's debts.

Question 3

Can a company be struck off for overdue filings?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Companies House has the power to strike off (dissolve) a company if it persistently fails to file its confirmation statement or annual accounts. Before striking off, Companies House will send warning letters. Once dissolved, the company's assets vest in the Crown as bona vacantia, and directors may face personal liability for company debts.

Question 4

Why do credit analysts and insolvency practitioners care about overdue filings?

Accepted Answer

Overdue filings are a recognised early-warning indicator of financial distress. Research shows that companies that stop filing on time are significantly more likely to enter administration or liquidation within 12–24 months. Credit analysts use this data to flag elevated risk when assessing trade credit or lending decisions. Insolvency practitioners monitor overdue filings to identify potential new appointments.

Question 5

What is the difference between overdue accounts and an overdue confirmation statement?

Accepted Answer

Annual accounts (also called statutory accounts) are the company's financial statements: balance sheet, profit and loss, and notes. These are due at Companies House 9 months after the company's accounting reference date (for private companies). A confirmation statement (formerly the annual return) simply confirms that the company's registered information (directors, shareholders, registered address) is up to date. It must be filed at least once every 12 months. Both are separate obligations with separate deadlines and penalties.

Overdue Filing Alert Board