Even if your company is dormant (inactive and not trading), you can’t simply ignore it. If you no longer need your UK dormant company, it’s important to formally close it to avoid ongoing filing obligations or penalties.This guide explains how to close a dormant company properly, what steps are required, and how Dragonfly Associates helps clients complete the process—subject to agreement.
What Is a Dormant Company?
A dormant company is one that has no “significant accounting transactions” and is not actively trading. You may have kept the company dormant for brand protection, investment planning, or future use.
However, maintaining a dormant company still requires:
- Annual accounts (simplified)
- Confirmation Statements
- Maintenance of statutory registers
If you no longer need it, dissolving the company can save time and cost.
How to Close a Dormant Company
Dormant companies are usually closed through a voluntary strike-off using form DS01. The process is straightforward if:
- The company has not traded or changed names in the last 3 months
- There are no outstanding debts, liabilities, or legal actions
- Assets (if any) have been dealt with properly
Dragonfly Associates reviews your company’s eligibility for strike-off and prepares the necessary documentation.
Step-by-Step Closure Process
1. Board Approval
Pass a resolution confirming that the company is no longer needed and will apply for strike-off.
2. Prepare and Submit DS01
Form DS01 must be signed by a majority of directors and submitted to Companies House along with the appropriate fee (£10).
Once accepted, Companies House will publish a notice in The Gazette stating the intention to strike the company off.
3. Wait for Objections
If no objections are received within 2 months, the company will be formally dissolved and removed from the register.
We monitor this timeline and manage all communication with Companies House.
Settling Any Remaining Obligations
Before submitting DS01, make sure:
- Final dormant accounts are filed (if required)
- Confirmation Statement is up to date
- HMRC is informed of your intent to dissolve
- Business bank accounts are closed
- Any remaining company assets are distributed
Failing to do so may lead to rejection of the application or future complications. We help ensure all loose ends are tied up.
Avoiding Future Costs or Penalties
Leaving a dormant company open can lead to:
- Automatic penalties for missed filings
- Strike-off by Companies House without warning
- Potential director disqualification for repeated non-compliance
We help you close your dormant company cleanly and without risk.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I have to file accounts before closing a dormant company?
Yes, you must file any due accounts and make sure the company is fully compliant before applying for strike-off.
Can I reopen a company after it’s closed?
No. Once dissolved, the company no longer exists. Restoration is possible, but it requires a formal application and justification.
Can Dragonfly Associates help with this?
Yes. We assist with DS01 preparation, compliance checks, and all closure filings under defined support packages—subject to agreement.
Close Your Dormant Company the Right Way
Closing a dormant company is simple—but only if the process is handled correctly. With proper filings and communication, you can dissolve your company and move forward without risk.
Dragonfly Associates provides full support for dormant company closure, including final checks, filings, and liaison with Companies House—delivered under service agreement.
Contact our team today to begin your company’s closure with confidence.
