File Companies House accounts online to avoid delays, businesses told

Businesses have been urged to file Companies House accounts online as coronavirus disruption continues to significantly delay processing times.

The official register of companies said paper accounts can take days, or sometimes weeks, to process.

If you are due to file accounts with Companies House in September, here’s what you need to know.

Why are there delays?

Companies House is continuing to follow Government guidance for working safely during coronavirus, which may mean it “could take longer than usual to process paper documents sent by post”.

Can I still file accounts by post?

Yes, but only if your company cannot file online. You should leave plenty of time to send the accounts before the deadline to correct for mistakes and resend them if they are rejected. Always use guaranteed next day delivery, as Companies House cannot accept postal delays as an excuse for late filing.

How do I file online?

Businesses can use this link to file company accounts online.

The online service is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. There are also “inbuilt checks” to ensure accounts are submitted correctly.

Once submitted, you will receive an email to confirm that Companies House has received your accounts, and another email when they’ve been processed.

How do I get an authentication code?

If this is your first time filing online, you will need to request an authentication code. This may take up to five days to arrive, so please leave plenty of time to file your accounts.

Get advice today

For help and advice with related matters, please get in touch with our team today.