Most Common Filing Deadlines
Companies registered in the UK must meet the following core deadlines:
- Annual Accounts: usually due 9 months after your accounting year-end
- Confirmation Statement: due every 12 months (14 days after the “confirmation date”)
- Corporation Tax Return: due 12 months after the end of your accounting period
- VAT Returns (if registered): due quarterly or monthly, depending on your VAT scheme
- PAYE submissions (if employing staff): due monthly or quarterly
We track these dates for clients enrolled in our compliance or accounting plans.
Consequences of Missing a Deadline
Missing a filing deadline may result in:
- Financial Penalties: Companies House and HMRC impose fines that increase the longer a document remains overdue
- Legal Notices: Formal warnings or strike-off notices may be issued
- Reputational Damage: Suppliers or investors may lose confidence in your company
- Strike-Off Proceedings: Companies House may attempt to dissolve your company
Example: Accounts filed up to one month late are fined £150, rising to £1,500 if over six months late.
What to Do If You Miss a Deadline
Step 1: Act Quickly
The sooner you address the issue, the better. Prompt action can reduce penalties and avoid escalation.
Step 2: Submit the Missing Document
Even if late, filing is better than doing nothing. Submission may stop further enforcement and preserve your record.
Step 3: Communicate (If Necessary)
If delays were caused by illness, technical issues, or unforeseen events, consider notifying Companies House or HMRC. Dragonfly Associates can assist with this process under compliance plans.
Can Penalties Be Appealed?
Yes, if you have a valid reason. Acceptable excuses may include:
- Serious illness
- Documented system failure
- Unexpected death of a key person
- Postal or administrative disruptions
Being short-staffed or unaware of rules usually won’t qualify. We assist with appeals on a case-by-case basis, subject to agreement.
How to Prevent Missed Deadlines in the Future
Dragonfly Associates offers proactive compliance support, including:
- Deadline Monitoring: We maintain a digital calendar of due dates
- Automated Reminders: Clients receive alerts well in advance
- Full-Service Filing: For eligible plans, we handle submissions directly
- Health Checks: Periodic reviews ensure filings stay current
Frequently Asked Questions
Will Companies House strike off my company automatically?
If filings are months overdue, strike-off proceedings may begin. If no objections are made, your company can be dissolved.
Can I reverse a strike-off once it starts?
Yes, but you must act quickly. We assist with emergency restorations and urgent submissions where needed.
Do late filings affect my personal record?
Not directly, but repeated non-compliance may impact your credibility as a director and raise concerns among partners or regulators.
Stay Ahead of the Curve
Compliance isn’t just about ticking boxes—it’s about protecting your company’s legal standing and your own professional reputation.
Dragonfly Associates helps business owners meet deadlines with confidence, through reminder systems, filing services, and director support—delivered as part of agreed service packages.
If you’ve already missed a deadline, or want to ensure you never do, get in touch with our team today.
