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Filing your company’s annual accounts is a legal requirement for all UK limited companies. Missing deadlines or submitting incorrect information can lead to penalties, fines, or even company dissolution.
At TT Accountancy, a trusted accounting firm in London, we help businesses stay compliant with Companies House and HMRC regulations. This step-by-step guide explains how to file your annual accounts correctly and on time.
Why Filing Annual Accounts is Important
✅ Legal Requirement – Mandatory for all UK limited companies.
✅ Avoid Penalties – Late filings result in fines up to £1,500+.
✅ Maintain Good Standing – Ensures your company remains in good standing with Companies House.
✅ Financial Transparency – Builds trust with investors, lenders, and clients.
Step-by-Step Guide to Filing Annual Accounts in the UK
Step 1: Know Your Filing Deadlines
- First Accounts: Due 21 months after incorporation.
- Subsequent Accounts: Due 9 months after your company’s financial year-end.
Example: If your accounting period ends on 31st March 2025, your accounts must be filed by 31st December 2025.
⚠️ Late Filing Penalties:
| Delay | Penalty (Private Ltd Co.) |
|---|---|
| Up to 1 month | £150 |
| 1-3 months | £375 |
| 3-6 months | £750 |
| Over 6 months | £1,500 |
Step 2: Prepare Your Financial Statements
Your annual accounts must include:
- Balance Sheet – Shows assets, liabilities, and equity.
- Profit & Loss Statement – Summarizes revenue, costs, and profits.
- Director’s Report (if applicable) – Overview of company performance.
- Notes to the Accounts – Additional financial explanations.
Small companies may qualify for abridged (simplified) accounts.
Step 3: Choose Your Filing Method
You can file your accounts:
- Online via Companies House WebFiling (Fastest & Cheapest)
- Through Accounting Software (Xero, QuickBooks, FreeAgent)
- By Post (Slower, only for paper filings)
- Via an Accountant (Best for accuracy & compliance)
Step 4: Submit to Companies House & HMRC
- Companies House – File your annual accounts and Confirmation Statement.
- HMRC – Submit your Corporation Tax Return (CT600) alongside accounts.
💡 Pro Tip: Even if your company is dormant, you must still file accounts (but with simplified requirements).
Step 5: Keep Records & Stay Compliant
- Retain financial records for at least 6 years.
- Ensure director details and registered office address are up to date.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
❌ Missing Deadlines → Leads to fines & legal issues.
❌ Incorrect Financial Data → Risks HMRC investigations.
❌ Not Filing Dormant Accounts → Still required for inactive companies.
❌ Mixing Personal & Business Finances → Causes accounting errors.
Why Choose TT Accountancy for Annual Accounts Filing?
At TT Accountancy, we take the stress out of compliance. Our services include:
📊 Annual Accounts Preparation & Filing
📑 Corporation Tax Returns (CT600)
📅 Confirmation Statement Submissions
💼 Bookkeeping & Financial Reporting
📍 Serving businesses across London & the UK with expert accounting support.
Need Help with Your Annual Accounts?
Don’t risk penalties or errors—let TT Accountancy handle your filings accurately and on time.
📞 Call: 02039741266
📧 Email: thomas@ttaccountancy.com
🌐 Website: https://ttaccountancy.com
