File annual accounts at Companies House
A private company's accounts must reach Companies House within nine months of its year end. A company's first accounts are due 21 months after incorporation.
What has to happen
Small companies can file simpler accounts publicly, but the full accounts still have to be prepared for the tax return. The nine months run from the accounting reference date, which is usually the last day of the month the company was formed in unless it has been changed.
If you miss it
Automatic penalties for a private company: £150 up to one month late, £375 up to three months, £750 up to six months and £1,500 after that, doubled if the previous year was also late. Persistent failure can lead to the company being struck off and the directors prosecuted. Source: gov.uk and Companies House guidance, checked September 2026.
What to do
Enter your year end below. The accounts and the Corporation Tax return come from the same work, so one deadline plan covers both.
Other dates in this area
- Depends on your datesConfirmation statementCompanies HouseDetails
