Last updated 23 October 2026. Written by the Limited Company Accountant UK team, part of Accotax. Figures are for the 2026/27 tax year; always check GOV.UK for the latest rates.
Short answer: every UK limited company must file annual accounts with Companies House and a Corporation Tax return with HMRC. Private company accounts are due nine months after the end of the accounting period. A small company’s accounts usually include a balance sheet, notes and a directors’ report, and the tax return and computation are filed with HMRC within 12 months of the period end.
Key takeaways
- Accounts go to Companies House, and the CT600 goes to HMRC.
- Deadline for private company accounts: nine months after the year end.
- First accounts have different rules, depending on your incorporation date.
- Late filing with Companies House carries automatic penalties from £150 to £1,500.
- Even dormant companies must file accounts.
What must a limited company file each year?
A limited company has three main annual duties. First, it prepares statutory accounts and files them at Companies House, where they become part of the public record. Second, it submits a Company Tax Return (CT600) to HMRC along with full accounts and a tax computation. Third, it files a confirmation statement to confirm company details. VAT, payroll and other returns are extra, depending on your situation. Our year-end accounts service covers the first two.
What do the accounts include?
Balance sheet
The balance sheet shows what the company owns and owes on the last day of the period. It lists fixed assets, current assets such as cash and debtors, liabilities and the shareholders’ equity. See our explainer on what a balance sheet is.
Profit and loss account
The profit and loss account shows income and expenses over the period. Small companies can file with Companies House without it if they choose, but HMRC still needs the full profit and loss account with the tax return. It shows turnover, costs and the profit that is taxed.
Notes to the accounts
The notes explain accounting policies, employee numbers, directors’ loans and other required information. Small companies must include certain disclosures even if they use simplified reporting.
Directors’ report and approval
Companies usually include a directors’ report and a statement that directors have approved the accounts. A director must sign the balance sheet. Many small companies are exempt from audit, but you must state the exemption.
Micro-entity accounts
Smaller companies can use the micro-entity regime if they meet two of three conditions on turnover, balance sheet total and employees. This allows even simpler accounts. See what micro-entity accounts are.
Accounts deadlines for Companies House
Private limited companies must file accounts within nine months of the accounting reference date, which is the last day of the company’s financial year. For a year end of 31 March 2027, the deadline is 31 December 2027. For your first accounts, the deadline is the later of 21 months from incorporation or nine months after the first period end. Use our filing deadline calculator to work out your dates.
Penalties for late filing
Companies House penalties for private companies are £150 if up to one month late, £375 if one to three months late, £750 if three to six months late and £1,500 if more than six months late. The amounts double if the accounts are late in two consecutive years. Directors can also face prosecution for repeated failures. Read what happens if you miss the accounts deadline.
Corporation Tax return and payment
The CT600 is due 12 months after the end of your accounting period, but tax is due earlier: nine months and one day after the period end. That means you must estimate and pay your Corporation Tax before the return is due. Accounts for HMRC must be in iXBRL format, which accounting software and accountants can produce. See Corporation Tax basics.
What records do you need before the accounts are prepared?
- Bank statements for the whole period.
- Sales and purchase invoices and receipts.
- Payroll records, including payslips and RTI submissions.
- VAT returns, if registered.
- Details of fixed assets, loans and director’s loan transactions.
- Dividend records and board minutes.
Good bookkeeping makes the year-end faster and cheaper. See bookkeeping for limited companies and our year-end checklist.
Do dormant companies need accounts?
Yes. A dormant company must still file annual accounts and a confirmation statement with Companies House, though accounts can be very simple if there are no transactions. HMRC may also require a nil return unless you tell it the company is dormant. See dormant company accounts.
Who can prepare the accounts?
Directors are legally responsible for the accounts, but they can use accounting software or hire an accountant to prepare them. Errors can cause penalties and incorrect tax. An accountant also advises on reliefs and presentation. Our fixed-fee packages cover year-end accounts from £45.83 + VAT a month.
Filing in Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland
All UK companies file accounts with Companies House, which has separate registers for England and Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland. The rules and deadlines are the same. HMRC Corporation Tax deadlines are also identical across the UK.
Tips for a smooth year end
Start preparing your accounts as soon as your financial year ends. Reconcile your bank accounts, make sure all invoices are recorded and chase any missing receipts. Review your director’s loan account, as an overdrawn balance can lead to a tax charge. Count and value stock if you hold any. Agree your payroll figures and confirm that dividends are properly documented. The earlier your accountant has complete information, the sooner they can prepare the figures and give you time to pay the tax.
Who can see your accounts?
Accounts filed with Companies House are public. Anyone can search the register and download them, including competitors, banks and customers. If privacy is a concern, you can choose to file the minimum information allowed for your company size. Your tax computation and full profit and loss account go only to HMRC, not the public record. Directors’ home addresses must also be handled carefully, and you can apply to protect certain personal details on the register.
Why accurate accounts matter
Accounts are used by lenders, landlords, suppliers and insurers to judge your business. They also form the basis of your tax return. Mistakes can lead to overpaying or underpaying tax and to HMRC enquiries. If you spot a mistake after filing, you can amend the return or file corrected accounts. Having a professional review before submission reduces risk and often pays for itself in missed expenses and reliefs.
The bottom line
Every company files accounts with Companies House and a Company Tax Return with HMRC. Private company accounts are due nine months after the year end, and late filing brings automatic penalties, so start preparing early.
Frequently asked questions
When are limited company accounts due?
Nine months after the accounting period ends for Companies House, and 12 months for the Corporation Tax return.
What happens if I file accounts late?
Companies House charges automatic penalties of £150 to £1,500 for private companies, doubled if late two years in a row.
Do I need an accountant to file accounts?
No, but you are legally responsible for accuracy. Many directors use an accountant for peace of mind and tax advice.
What is included in a set of small company accounts?
Usually a balance sheet, notes and a directors' report, plus the profit and loss account for HMRC.
Do dormant companies need to file accounts?
Yes, they must file accounts and a confirmation statement each year.
Want this handled for you?
Our fixed monthly packages start at £45.83 + VAT and cover accounts, tax and deadlines. Get a free quote or call 0203 4411 258.