Running a limited company in the UK comes with several legal responsibilities, and one of the most important among them is submitting your annual company return. Although the traditional “annual return” was officially replaced by the Confirmation Statement in 2016, many business owners across the UK still use the term annual company return to describe the yearly compliance document required by Companies House.

What Is an Annual Company Return in the UK?

The term annual company return refers to the yearly report that every UK limited company must file with Companies House. This document provides a snapshot of your company’s key details and ensures that public records remain accurate and up to date.

While the official term now is the “Confirmation Statement,” the purpose remains the same:

• To confirm company information

• To keep the Companies House register accurate

• To maintain transparency in UK corporate records

Failing to submit your annual company return can lead to penalties, investigation, and even company dissolution.

Why UK Limited Companies Must File an Annual Company Return

Whether your business is active, dormant, or trading at a low level, every registered UK limited company is legally required to file an annual company return every year. This requirement ensures that the UK Government has accurate information regarding:

• Company directors

• Registered office address

• Shareholders

• People with significant control (PSCs)

• Share structure

• SIC codes (business activity)

Keeping this information updated helps prevent fraud, promotes transparency, and protects both the company and its stakeholders.

Key Information Required in an Annual Company Return

Here’s what UK companies typically need to confirm or update when submitting their yearly return:

1. Registered Office Address

Your official UK address where HMRC and Companies House send legal correspondence.

2. Company Directors

You must verify full names, service addresses, and appointment details.

3. Shareholders

A breakdown of share ownership, including any changes made during the year.

4. People With Significant Control (PSCs)

Anyone who owns 25% or more of the company shares or voting rights.

5. SIC Code

A four-digit code describing your business activity, such as IT, retail, consultancy, manufacturing, etc.

6. Share Capital and Structure

Any changes in share distribution must be accurately reported.

7. Company Trading Status

You must confirm whether the company is active or dormant.

This information forms the core of what Companies House needs in your annual company return.

When Is the Annual Company Return Due?

The annual company return is due every 12 months, starting from the date your company was incorporated. You must file it within 14 days after this anniversary date.

For example:

• Company incorporation date: 1 March 2024

• Due date for the return: 1 March 2025

• Filing deadline: 15 March 2025

Companies House will send reminders, but it is ultimately the director’s responsibility to file on time.

How to File an Annual Company Return in the UK

Filing your annual company return is a straightforward process and can be completed online through Companies House.

Step 1: Log in to Companies House WebFiling

Use your company number and authentication code.

Step 2: Review Existing Company Information

Check for accuracy regarding directors, share capital, and PSC information.

Step 3: Update Changes if Required

If there were changes during the year, update them before filing.

Step 4: Submit the Confirmation Statement

This acts as your official annual company return.

Step 5: Pay the Filing Fee

The current fee is:

• £13 online, or

• £40 by post

Most UK companies use the online option for faster processing.

What Happens if You Don’t File an Annual Company Return?

Failure to file your annual company return can lead to serious consequences, including:

• Company being struck off the register

• Directors facing enforcement action

• Limited ability to open bank accounts or secure funding

• Loss of legal protections of a limited company

Companies House may also issue warnings and begin the strike-off process if the return is overdue for an extended period. Therefore, timely submission of your annual company return is essential.

Common Mistakes UK Businesses Make When Filing

Many UK directors unknowingly make errors when submitting their yearly return. Here are the most common mistakes:

❌ Forgetting the filing deadline

❌ Not updating director information

❌ Incorrect PSC details

❌ Choosing the wrong SIC code

❌ Assuming a dormant company doesn’t need to file

Avoiding these issues ensures your annual company return is accurate and compliant.

How Accountants Can Help With Annual Company Return Filing

Many UK business owners hire accountants or company secretarial services to manage their compliance. Professionals help by:

• Tracking deadlines

• Managing record updates

• Filing the annual company return accurately

• Ensuring proper documentation

• Avoiding penalties and strike-off risks

This support is especially helpful for new startups or fast-growing companies.

Tips for Filing Your Annual Company Return Smoothly

Here are some expert tips to make the process easier:

✔ Maintain updated records throughout the year

✔ Store director and shareholder information securely

✔ Set automated reminders

✔ Use an accountant if overwhelmed

✔ File early to avoid last-minute issues

Consistent record-keeping ensures your annual company return is straightforward every year.

Conclusion

The annual company return is a crucial compliance requirement for every UK limited company. It ensures Companies House records stay accurate, transparent, and up to date. By understanding the necessary information, deadlines, and best filing practices, UK business owners can easily stay compliant and avoid costly penalties.

Whether your company is large, small, active, or dormant, filing your annual company return on time is a legal obligation that protects your business and maintains your good standing with UK authorities.

FAQ

1. Is an annual company return the same as a confirmation statement?

Yes. Although the term “annual return” has been replaced by the “Confirmation Statement,” many UK business owners still use both terms interchangeably.

2. How often do I need to file an annual company return?

You need to file one every 12 months, within 14 days of your company’s incorporation anniversary.

3. Do dormant companies in the UK need to file an annual companies return?

Yes. All limited companies, including dormant ones, must file a yearly return.

4. How much does it cost to submit the annual companies return?

The online filing fee is £13.

5. What happens if I file late?

Companies House may start strike-off proceedings, and directors may face enforcement action.

6. Can I update director or shareholder details after filing?

Yes, but these changes must be recorded via separate forms before submitting the return.

7. Do I need an accountant to file my annual companies return?

Not necessarily, but many UK businesses use one to ensure full compliance.