Confirmation statement overdue? Here’s what to do

How to check if your confirmation statement Is overdue

An overdue confirmation statement occurs when a company fails to submit its annual return to the government authorities within 14 days of the statement date.

1. Access your company’s filing deadlines

To check if your confirmation statement is overdue, you can access your company’s filing deadlines through the Companies House website. Simply enter your company name or registration number to view your company’s filing history and upcoming deadlines.

2. Identify an overdue confirmation statement

If your confirmation statement due date has passed and you haven’t filed it yet, it is considered overdue. You’ll see a red flag or warning message indicating that your confirmation statement is late.

3. Check your company’s filing history

Reviewing your company’s filing history can help you identify any past instances of late filing or missed deadlines. This information can be valuable in understanding your company’s compliance track record and identifying areas for improvement.

Steps to take when your confirmation statement is overdue

If you find yourself in a situation where the confirmation statement is overdue, all is not lost. Taking swift action and following the correct steps can help rectify the situation.

Gathering necessary information

To file your overdue confirmation statement, you’ll need to gather all the necessary information, including any changes to your company’s details since the last filing. This may include updates to directors’ information, shareholders, registered office address, and other relevant data.

Filing the overdue confirmation statement

Once you have all the required information, you can proceed to file your confirmation statement online through the Companies House website. Be sure to double-check all the details before submitting to avoid any further delays or errors.

In addition to submitting the overdue confirmation statement, it is advisable to communicate with the relevant parties involved, such as shareholders, directors, and company accountants. Transparency and prompt communication can help mitigate any potential damage to the company’s reputation and relationships with stakeholders.

Paying late filing penalties

When filing an overdue confirmation statement, you may be subject to late filing penalties. These penalties increase the longer you delay filing, so it’s crucial to take action as soon as possible. Be prepared to pay any necessary fees and keep records of your payments for future reference.

Consequences of filing a late confirmation statement

The consequences of neglecting the timely submission of the confirmation statement can be severe.

Legal implications

Late filing of confirmation statements is a criminal offence and can result in legal action against the company and its directors. In extreme cases, Companies House may strike off the company from the register, effectively closing it down.

The confirmation statement must always be filed however, even if this is overdue, as failure to file the confirmation statement is a criminal offence. If you file it too late Companies House may strike off the company (close the company) for non-receipt of the confirmation statement.

Reputational damage

Consistently filing late or failing to file confirmation statements can damage your company’s reputation. It may raise red flags for potential investors, partners, and customers, who may question your company’s commitment to compliance and transparency.

Increased scrutiny from companies house

Companies with a history of late filings may face increased scrutiny from Companies House. This could lead to more frequent investigations, audits, and potential penalties, consuming valuable time and resources that could be better spent on growing your business.

Tips for avoiding an overdue confirmation statement

So, if you currently have an overdue confirmation statement then there is no need to panic and you don’t need to worry about incurring a fine but we do urge you to act on this. Why not request a free quote via our homepage as we charge only £30 to complete and submit the confirmation statement for you.

Setting reminders

To avoid missing your confirmation statement deadline, set reminders well in advance. Mark your calendar, set alerts on your phone, or use a project management tool to ensure you have ample time to gather the necessary information and file your statement before the due date.

Filing the confirmation statement early

Don’t wait until the last minute to file your confirmation statement. Companies House allows you to file your statement up to 14 days before the due date. By filing early, you can avoid the stress of last-minute scrambling and ensure your company remains compliant.

Keeping company information up-to-date

Regularly review and update your company information throughout the year. This includes changes to directors, shareholders, registered office address, and other relevant details. By keeping your records current, you’ll be better prepared when it comes time to file your confirmation statement.

Key takeaway:

Got an overdue confirmation statement? Don’t sweat it. Here’s a quick fix: gather your company info, file online at Companies House, and clear any late fees pronto. Keep your records straight to dodge future hassles and keep on the good side of the law.

Conclusion

A confirmation statement overdue isn’t the end of the world. But it’s not something you want to ignore either. By taking swift action, communicating with the right people, and implementing some simple preventative measures, you can get back on track and keep your company in good standing.

Remember, staying on top of your confirmation statement is all about being proactive. Set those reminders, file early when you can, and keep your company details up-to-date.

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