Limited Companies and the Crucial Confirmation Statement (CS01 Form)

Failure to file a Confirmation Statement (CS01 form) with Companies House annually can lead to serious legal consequences, including prosecution. So, what exactly is a Confirmation Statement? Why is it necessary? And what is the process for filing one? In this RJF Accounting blog, we unravel these questions to provide you with the essential knowledge to steer clear of any penalties or legal actions.

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What Is a Confirmation Statement?

Introduced in 2016 as a replacement for the old annual return, the Companies House Confirmation Statement (CS01) is an obligatory document for all limited companies. It’s required annually, regardless of the company’s status, whether dormant or not trading. Its primary purpose is to authenticate vital company data, ensuring the legal records for both limited and limited liability partnerships remain up-to-date.

The CS01 contains comprehensive information that Companies House needs, including:

  • Directors and Secretary
  • People with Significant Control
  • Current Company Officers
  • Registered Office Address
  • Single Alternative Inspection Location (SAIL Address)
  • Standard Industrial Classification (SIC) Code
  • Shareholder Information
  • Statement of Capital
  • Exemption from Keeping a PSC Register

Important Note: The CS01 differs from the annual account information that must also be filed with Companies House. If you’re uncertain about this, it’s wise to consult an accountant.

Confirmation Statement Filing Deadline

Companies must fill out the CS01 form within 14 days of their anniversary of formation. For example:

  • Formed on 1st January 2023
  • CS01 due on 31st December 2024
  • Completion deadline: 14th January 2024

It’s a simple timeline to remember: no later than a year and 14 days after the last one was completed. Rest assured, Companies House will remind you, provided they have the correct company details.

Remember, the CS01 must be completed every year, even if there are no changes to report. Failing to do this has led some directors into legal trouble.

Who Is Responsible for Filing a Confirmation Statement?

All company directors must ensure timely completion and submission of the CS01 form to Companies House. Delegating the task to an accountant or company secretary doesn’t absolve directors from responsibility. Any delay can result in grave consequences, such as the company being struck off or directors facing prosecution.

How To File a Confirmation Statement

With registration for WebFiling with Companies House, filing the CS01 is straightforward. It can be submitted through:

  • Post (using form CS01 or form LL CS01 for LLPs)
  • Online via WebFiling
  • Online through a Company Formation Agent
  • Through Your Accountant

An annual fee (currently £13 online) is applicable, though many accountants include it in their service packages. Always check with your accountant before engaging a third party.

What Happens if the Confirmation Statement Isn’t Filed?

Failing to file a confirmation statement is a criminal offence with significant repercussions, including:

  • Striking off the Company from the Register
  • Forced Dissolution, with Assets Passed to the Crown
  • Possible Prosecution of Company Officers/LLP Members

Given that the online form takes just a few minutes, and the fee is a nominal £13 per year, there’s no reason to risk these severe outcomes.

How Can We Help?

Here at RJF Accounting, we are startup specialist accountants; this means we know exactly what is needed from us to help your startup get going and keep going. We offer services that can help your startup, including:

If you need advice on your new business or are looking to hire a startup accountant, call the team today on 0161 5040629 or email us at hello@rjf.uk.com to see if we can help you get your business finances. We are open Monday to Friday, 9 am – 5 pm!

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