COVID-19. Extending your accounts filing deadline

Businesses can apply to extend their filing deadline

26 Mar 2020

If your business is adversely affected by the COVID-19 outbreak, you may be able to apply to extend your company’s filing deadline. Businesses need to be aware of the conditions of making an application and ensure they apply in advance of their filing deadline.

Statutory filing requirements

All companies must send their accounts, reports and confirmation statements to Companies House every year. If a company’s accounts are filed late, the law imposes an automatic penalty.

Your company should take appropriate measures to ensure accounts are filed on time.

When to apply

You can apply to extend your accounts deadline if you cannot send your accounts because of an event that’s outside of your control.

You must apply for the extension before your filing deadline.

Coronavirus (COVID-19)

If your accounts will be late because your company is affected by COVID-19, you can apply for an automatic and immediate 3 month extension to file your accounts.

Companies that have already extended their filing deadline, or shortened their accounting reference period, may not be eligible for an extension.

Late filing penalties: COVID-19

If you do not apply for an extension and your accounts are filed late, an automatic penalty will be imposed. The registrar has very limited discretion not to collect a penalty.

How to apply

Send an email to enquiries@companieshouse.gov.uk

To apply online you’ll need:

· your company number

· information about why you need more time

· any documents to support your applications (optional)

Companies House will review your application and make a decision about your extension request.

If you have any questions about a delay in filing your accounts if your business is affected by COVID-19 please get in touch with your usual Alliotts partner.

For more information relating to COVID-19, please view our COVID-19. Information Quick Find page

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