A confirmation statement is a mandatory annual filing for all UK limited companies and limited liability partnerships (LLPs) that confirms the company’s key details held by Companies House are accurate and up to date. It replaced the old annual return process and remains one of a company’s core compliance obligations.

Even if your company has not changed any details during the year, you still must file a confirmation statement at least once every 12 months. Filing ensures that the public register maintained by Companies House reflects your company’s true legal and ownership information.

What is a confirmation statement?

A confirmation statement (also known as Form CS01) is a formal declaration submitted to Companies House confirming that the basic information held about your company remains correct. The purpose is to verify that corporate records — including registered office address, directors, shareholders, share capital, company activities and People with Significant Control (PSC) — are current and accurate.

Who needs to file a confirmation statement?

All UK private limited companies, public limited companies and limited liability partnerships (LLPs) are legally required to file a confirmation statement with Companies House. This requirement applies even if the company is dormant or non-trading. Sole traders and unregistered partnerships are not required to file a confirmation statement unless they are registered with Companies House.

When is a confirmation statement due?

Your confirmation statement is due at least once every 12 months. The 12-month period is called your review period, and it starts on either:

• the date your company was incorporated, or

• the date you filed your last confirmation statement.

You then have up to 14 days after the end of your review period to file the new confirmation statement. Filing early within the review period is allowed, and doing so resets the next period from the date of filing.

What information does a confirmation statement include?

A confirmation statement confirms the company details Companies House holds, including:

• Registered office address

• Details of directors and company officers

• People with Significant Control (PSC) information

• Shareholder details and share capital (if applicable)

• Standard Industrial Classification (SIC) codes

• Company’s trading status where appropriate

You should ensure any changes to directors, registered office or PSCs are filed before or at the same time as your confirmation statement to avoid errors.

How to file a confirmation statement

You can file your confirmation statement online via the Companies House WebFiling service using your company authentication code. Online filing is generally faster, easier and more cost-effective. Some companies also choose to file by post, though this usually takes longer and may carry a higher fee.

What happens if you miss the filing deadline?

Failing to file your confirmation statement on time is a serious legal issue. Companies House can take enforcement action, which may include financial penalties, late filing notifications, or even striking off your company from the register if persistent non-compliance continues. Directors may also face prosecution for repeated or prolonged failure to comply with filing requirements.

Missing a confirmation statement can also harm your company’s reputation with banks, lenders and investors, as late filings are displayed on the public register.

Can you update details when filing?

Yes, you can update certain details when filing your confirmation statement, such as SIC codes, shareholder information, share capital or trading status. However, some changes must be notified separately before filing, such as appointment or resignation of directors, changes to PSCs, or changes to your registered office.

Why confirmation statements matter

Filing your confirmation statement satisfies a legal requirement and confirms to the public, suppliers, lenders and regulators that your company is compliant and up to date with its statutory information. Accurate filings help maintain your company’s good standing and protect it from penalties and enforcement action.