How to file a confirmation statement for Companies House

Filing a confirmation statement is important for all UK limited companies and LLPs. It helps Companies House keep the main details about your business up to date, so public records are always correct. The confirmation statement replaced the old annual return and is now much simpler, making it easier for business owners to stay compliant.

 

This statement is your chance to check and confirm that Companies House has the right information about your company, like your registered office address, directors, shareholders, and share capital. If anything has changed, you must update it before you file.

 

How to File a Confirmation Statement might seem confusing, especially if you’re new to running a business. But with clear guidance, the process can be quick and stress-free. 

What Is a Confirmation Statement?

A confirmation statement is an annual filing that confirms the information Companies House holds about your company is accurate and up to date. It replaced the annual return in 2016, aiming to simplify the process for businesses. 

The statement covers:

• Company name and registration number
• Registered office address
• Details of directors and the company secretary (if applicable)
• Shareholders and share capital
• People with Significant Control (PSC)
• Standard Industrial Classification (SIC) codes

Filing a confirmation statement is not just a formality; it’s a legal responsibility. Failing to file can lead to your company being struck off the register.

When Do You Need to File a Confirmation Statement?

You must file a confirmation statement at least once every 12 months. The 12 months are known as the ‘review period’ or ‘confirmation period’. The deadline is 14 days after the end of this period, which usually starts on either:

• The date your company was incorporated, or
• The date you last filed a confirmation statement

For new companies, the first confirmation statement is due within 14 days of the first anniversary of incorporation. Subsequent statements are due within 14 days of the end of each review period.

How to Prepare Before You File

Before you start the process, take these preparatory steps to ensure a smooth filing:

1. Gather Company Information: Have your company registration number, authentication code, and up-to-date records ready.
2. Review Current Details: Check your company’s information on the Companies House website.
3. Identify Changes: Note any updates since your last statement, such as changes in directors, shareholders, share capital, or registered office address.
4. Update Records: Make sure any changes are reflected in your internal records and, if necessary, file the relevant forms before or alongside your confirmation statement.
5. Choose Filing Method: Decide whether to file online (recommended) or by post.
6. Prepare Payment: The fee is £34 for online filing or £62 for paper filing (as of 2025).
7. Set Reminders: Mark your calendar to avoid missing the deadline.

How to File a Confirmation Statement Online

Filing online is the quickest and most cost-effective method. Here’s how to file a confirmation statement step by step:

1. Log in to Companies House

Visit the Companies House website and log in using your authentication code and password. If you don’t have an account, you’ll need to register for one.

 

2. Select “File a Confirmation Statement”

Once logged in, look for the option to “File a confirmation statement” or “File a CS01”. Enter your company number to ensure you’re filing for the correct company.

 

3. Review Your Company Information

Carefully check each section displayed by Companies House:

• Registered office address
• Directors’ and secretary’s details
• Statement of capital and shareholders
• People with Significant Control (PSC)
• SIC codes

If all information is correct, confirm by ticking the relevant box.

 

4. Update Any Changes

If there have been changes to your SIC codes, statement of capital, trading status of shares, exemption from keeping a PSC register, or shareholder information, you can update these as part of the confirmation statement. For changes to directors, PSCs, or registered office address, you must file separate forms before or alongside your confirmation statement.

 

5. Confirm Your Statement of Capital

If your company has shares, confirm or update the statement of capital, including the total number of shares and their value.

 

6. Confirm Shareholder Information

Review and update the list of shareholders and their shareholdings as needed.

 

7. Confirm SIC Codes

Check that your SIC codes accurately reflect your company’s activities. You can have up to four SIC codes.

 

8. Confirm Trading Status

Indicate whether your company is actively trading or dormant.

 

9. Pay the Filing Fee

Pay the £34 online filing fee (as of 2025) by credit/debit card or PayPal. Remember, this is an annual fee, regardless of how many times you file within the year.

 

10. Submit and Save Confirmation

Submit your statement. You’ll receive a confirmation email. Keep this for your records. Companies House usually processes online filings within 24 hours.

How to File a Confirmation Statement by Post

If you prefer, you can file by post using form CS01. Download and fill in parts 1 to 4 if you’re updating information. The paper filing fee is £62. Include your company name, registration number, and the ‘made-up date’ (confirmation date).

 

Note: Postal filings take longer to process and cost more. Online filing is recommended for speed and convenience.

What Happens If You Miss the Deadline?

There are no financial penalties for late filing, but not filing is a criminal offence. Companies House will send reminders, but it’s your responsibility to file on time. If you continue to ignore warnings, your company may be struck off the register and cease to exist, with assets passing to the Crown.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Missing the deadline: File your confirmation statement within 14 days of your due date.
• Overlooking changes: Review all company information for any updates or changes.
• Incorrect shareholder information: Ensure all shareholder details and shareholdings are accurate.
• Forgetting to update PSC details: Update any changes to Persons with Significant Control (PSC).
• Neglecting to check SIC codes: Confirm your SIC codes still match your company’s activities.
• Submitting incomplete information: Fill in all required fields before submitting.
• Failing to pay the filing fee: Make sure the filing fee is paid to avoid delays.
• Not keeping records: Keep a copy of your filed confirmation statement for your records.
• Assuming no changes means no filing: File your confirmation statement even if nothing has changed.
• Confusing it with annual accounts: Remember, the confirmation statement is separate from annual accounts.

By understanding how to file a confirmation statement and following these steps, you’ll keep your company compliant, transparent, and in good standing with Companies House. Make it part of your annual business routine and avoid unnecessary stress or penalties.

If you want to file your confirmation statement without any hassle, PHS Associates can help you every step of the way. Their experienced team will ensure your company’s details are accurately reviewed, updated, and submitted on time, keeping you fully compliant with Companies House requirements. Contact us at 0208 8611685  and email info@phs-uk.co.uk. Get in touch today to register with confidence and focus on building your business.

 

Frequently Asked Questions