Overview
From 1 April 2027, all businesses will be required to submit their annual accounts using commercial software. This is as a result of Companies House discontinuing its web-based and paper accounts filing options. Whether you file on behalf of the company, or through an accountant or agent, you'll need to use third party software from April 2027. You'll have one full accounting year plus an additional 9 months (21 months in total) to make the switch.
If you already file your annual accounts using commercial software such as Easy Digital Filing, you do not need to take any action.
What's Changing From 1 April 2027?
Starting from 1 April 2027, four key changes must be considered:
1. Annual accounts will need to be submitted digitally through third party software; submissions directly through Companies House will no longer be available. Paper filing options for accounts will also no longer be available.
2. Submitting abridged accounts (just the balance sheet) will no longer be permitted*. All small companies, including micro entities, will be required to submit their profit and loss accounts to Companies House.
* There have been recent rumours suggesting that small companies may be exempt from filing their profit and loss accounts. However, Companies House has not yet issued any official confirmation, we will provide an update as soon as further information becomes available.
3. Additional changes are expected, such as revisions to audit exemptions and accounting reference periods. Companies House will provide further details in the coming months.
4. Companies House is placing restrictions on how often a company can shorten its accounting period. If a company wants to do this more than once within five years, it must provide a valid business related reason.
Please note that the changes do not affect Companies House online services when submitting documents such as confirmation statements or director updates.
Why The Changes?
These updates are part of a wider initiative outlined in the Economic Crime and Corporate Transparency Act 2023. Shifting to third party software based accounts filing is a key change, aimed at enhancing the accuracy and reliability of the registers data by minimising mistakes. This change will also speed up processing times and strengthen Companies House ability to identify and prevent fraud.
Publishing basic profit and loss information on the register is intended to enhance access to credit, such as trade credit. It is also aimed at building trust amongst any potential business partners. Additionally, it aims to put a stop to the deliberate misuse of limited disclosure rules which may be used to conceal money laundering and other fraudulent practices.
Where Can I File Annual Accounts To Companies House?
Submit your company’s annual accounts to Companies House seamlessly through our software for just £30 + VAT (£20+VAT if also filing a corporation tax return to HMRC). Our platform ensures your accounts are automatically formatted in iXBRL; the required tagging language for Companies House submissions, saving you time and reducing the risk of your annual accounts submission being rejected.
There is also the planned closure of CATO (Company Accounts and Tax Online) commencing 31 March 2026. Businesses will no longer be able to file annual accounts and corporation tax returns through the joint filing service. This change means small and micro businesses must transition to third party software that supports both filings. Our software offers a comprehensive, all in one solution; enabling you to submit your Companies House annual accounts filings and Corporation Tax return (CT600) efficiently and in full compliance with current requirements.
Our joint filing solution is available for £139 + VAT and includes the submission of your annual accounts in iXBRL format to both Companies House and HMRC. By providing both Companies House and HMRC filings in one place, our platform eliminates the need to navigate multiple systems, taking the stress out of your accounts filing.
Where Can I Stay Updated?
Companies House regularly release guidance on GOV.UK to assist businesses transitioning to software filing and will continue to offer support throughout the process. They advise contacting your software provider to ensure you’re prepared and that the software meets your annual accounts filing requirements.
Looking For Further Information?
We recognise that moving from the Companies House online filing service to third party software might feel overwhelming, but you’re not alone, we’re here to help! At Easy Digital, we specialise in supporting small and micro businesses, and we’re committed to guiding you through this change. To keep up to date with the latest regulation changes from Companies House, be sure to check our Knowledge Base.
If you have any questions about how our software can accommodate your annual accounts filing needs, feel free to get in contact and we'll be happy to assist.
