Companies House has outlined several upcoming changes to the way company accounts are filed, effective from 1 April 2027. These updates support the Economic Crime and Corporate Transparency Act, aiming to enhance transparency and modernise the digital filing process.
Filing options for small and micro-entities
Small and micro-entity filing options will be streamlined from 1 April 2027.
Micro-entities will be required to file a copy of their balance sheet and profit and loss account.
Small companies will be required to file a copy of the balance sheet, directors’ report, auditor’s report (unless exempt) and profit and loss account.
Companies will no longer be able to prepare and file ‘abridged’ accounts.
Accounting reference period
Companies will be restricted from shortening their accounting reference period.
A business reason will now be required if a company wants to shorten the period more than once within 5 years. Currently, there is no restriction on how often this can be done.
Software only accounts filing
Starting 1 April 2027, all accounts, including dormant ones, must be filed through commercial software. Web and paper filing will no longer be accepted for account filings after this date but can still be used for other statutory submissions.
How M+A Partners can help
M+A Partners’ knowledgeable accounts team is on hand to support you with any questions regarding the upcoming accounts filing changes announced by Companies House.
Current clients will not be affected by the switch to commercial software – we will continue filing accounts for you as usual.
Any queries on this topic? Get in touch with your usual M+A Partners’ contact or email enquiries@mapartners.co.uk.