Launching a company is an exciting milestone — but running one comes with statutory responsibilities. Among the most important early obligations is submitting your annual confirmation statement, a mandatory filing with Companies House that ensures your company’s details remain accurate and publicly available. Neglecting this requirement risks penalties, reputational damage, or even dissolution of your business.
First-time filers may find the process intimidating initially. Nevertheless by adequately preparing and having a grasp of the requirements, finishing your initial statement is actually easier than it may appear.
Why the Confirmation Statement Matters
The confirmation statement01) took over annual return in . Its main aim is to verify that the details Companies House has on record about your company, like its registered office, shareholders, share capital, and business activity codes, are accurate as of the “confirmation date.”
It is a requirement to submit this statement even if there have been no changes. Ensuring that all information is still correct is a legal duty. Failing to meet the deadline can lead to severe repercussions, including fines or the forced closure of your company.
When Is Your First Confirmation Date?
The initial confirmation date is linked to when your company is established. A new business has a 12-month window starting from the date of incorporation to complete the confirmation process and submit the required filing within 14 days. If can be made earlier, starting 12-month period.
To prevent any last-minute anxiety, it is recommended to use digital reminders and monitor communications from Companies House closely to ensure that important deadlines are not missed.
Essential Preparations Before Filing
A smooth filing depends on careful preparation. Consider these steps before you begin:
1. Validate company details
Check your registered office address, statutory registers, and SIC (Standard Industrial Classification) codes.
2. Review directors and secretaries
Confirm that all appointments, names and addresses are accurate, and file any required changes separately before completing the statement.
3. Examine shareholders and PSCs
Details about shareholders, share classes and People with Significant Control (PSCs) must be correct and up to date.
4. Ensure access credentials
Have your Companies House authentication code ready for online filing.
5. Update changes separately
Certain alterations, such as changes of registered office, must be filed with specific forms before or alongside the statement.
Step-by-Step Filing Guide
- Log into Companies House WebFiling or compatible software.
- Select the confirmation statement (CS01).
- Review pre-populated information and make updates where necessary.
- Check thoroughly before submission.
- Pay the fee — £34 online or £62 by post.
- Submit and await acknowledgement.
Numerous businesses opt to delegate their initial filing to specialized firms to guarantee precision and prompt delivery.
Common Pitfalls to Avoid
- Confusing the statement with annual accounts — these are separate obligations.
- Filing late, even by a day, which can result in penalties.
- Overlooking updates to PSC information.
- Using outdated records instead of verifying internal documentation.
- Submitting the statement without first updating required changes through other forms.
After Filing: What to Expect
After submitting your filing, the 12-month confirmation period will start from that day. You can make multiple filings throughout the year without extra charges if there are additional changes. Maintaining precise internal records and scheduling reminders regularly will help make each filing a standard procedure.
Submitting your initial confirmation statement is crucial for showing that your business is well-managed and adheres to regulations. By being prepared and attentive, you can complete this process swiftly and confidently.