An Update From Companies House

This email landed in our inbox this morning from Companies House – the content is not new:

From 1 April 2027, all companies will need to file their annual accounts using commercial software. This means we’ll be closing our web and paper-based systems for account filings on that date. Whether you file accounts yourself or through an accountant or agent, you’ll need to use software from that point forward.

We’re contacting you now to give you plenty of time to prepare – you’ll have one full accounting year, plus 9 months, to make the switch (a total of 21 months).

If you already file your accounts using software, you do not need to take any action.

What’s changing

From 1 April 2027:
• accounts must be filed digitally using software – web and paper filing options for accounts will no longer be available from this date
• profit and loss accounts will be required for small and micro-entity companies
• other changes are planned, including updates to audit exemptions and accounting reference periods – we’ll share more information about these in the coming months

You’ll still be able to use our online services to file other documents like confirmation statements and director updates – these are not affected by this change.

Why these changes are happening

These changes are being introduced as part of a broader reform package under the Economic Crime and Corporate Transparency Act 2023.

The move to software filing is a critical step in improving the accuracy and quality of data on the register by reducing errors and formatting issues. It will also speed up processing times and help Companies House detect and prevent fraud more effectively.
For companies, this change will streamline the filing process and offer a more secure way to submit your accounts compared to paper filings.

Making basic profit and loss information available on the register aims to improve conditions for accessing credit, including trade credit lending, as well as helping to provide confidence for those who want to do business with a company. It will also reduce the risk of deliberate misuse of minimal disclosure options to hide money laundering and other fraudulent activity.

We’ve published guidance on GOV.UK to help companies make the switch to software filing and we’ll continue to provide guidance and support throughout the transition. We also recommend speaking to your accountant or software provider to make sure you’re ready.

How to keep up to date

Read all the latest updates on our Changes to UK company law website, keep an eye on our social channels and sign up for our regular email newsletters.

Unsurprisingly we already use software to file accounts, so no issue there for our clients, but please note the requirement to include a brief P&L in filings going forward.