When you’re running a limited company in the UK, keeping on top of your legal obligations might not be the most exciting part of your to-do list—but it is one of the most important. Among these obligations is something called a confirmation statement. It’s a simple document, but missing it can cause more trouble than you might expect.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through what the confirmation statement is, why it matters, and what you need to know as a company owner to avoid falling foul of Companies House requirements.
What is a confirmation statement?
Put simply, the confirmation statement is a yearly check-in with Companies House to confirm that the information they hold about your company is up to date. It’s not a financial document like your annual accounts—it’s more about the structure and status of your company.
Each year, you’ll need to confirm or update key details such as:
- Your registered office address
- Directors (and company secretary, if you have one)
- What your company does (its SIC code)
- Your shareholdings and shareholders
- Any individuals or entities with significant control (PSCs)
Even if nothing has changed since the last time you filed, you still need to confirm everything by submitting the statement. It’s a legal requirement for all limited companies.
Why does it matter?
On the surface, it might seem like a routine admin task, but the confirmation statement plays a key role in keeping the public register accurate. Investors, suppliers, and even potential clients often check Companies House to verify a business before working with them. If your company’s records are out of date or missing, it can give the wrong impression.
More importantly, if you forget then take help with property spv’s file confirmation statement online service, there can be serious consequences. Late filing can result in penalties, and if ignored altogether, your company could be struck off the register. That means it would legally cease to exist—even if you’re still trading.
When do you need to file it?
You must submit your confirmation statement at least once every 12 months. The due date is based on the “confirmation date”, which is either your company’s incorporation date or the date you last filed.
You then have 14 days after that date to file. So, if your company was incorporated on 1 May, your confirmation date would be 1 May each year, and your deadline would be 15 May.
You can file more than once a year if needed—particularly useful if you’ve made changes to things like your share structure or PSCs and want to keep the public record current.
What do you need to check before filing?
It’s worth reviewing the following information before submitting your statement:
- Registered office address – Make sure it’s still active and appropriate. You can’t use a PO Box alone.
- Directors and secretary – Any new appointments or resignations? These often need to be updated separately via the right Companies House forms.
- SIC code – Has your business changed direction? You might need to amend the classification.
- Share structure – Have you issued or transferred any shares recently?
- PSC register – This is a big one. You must report anyone who owns or controls more than 25% of your company, or who otherwise exercises significant influence.
If everything is accurate, you’re ready to go. If changes are needed, some updates should be made first, before you file your confirmation statement.
Should you get help?
If your company structure is simple and you’re confident managing it, you can handle the filing yourself. But if your business has multiple shareholders, frequent changes, or a more complex setup, it’s worth having a professional oversee it.
Many accountants or company secretarial services offer to handle filings for you, often as part of a wider compliance package. That way, you can focus on running your business and trust that your legal obligations are being handled correctly.
