Changes to Filing Accounts at Companies House: What You Need to Know

Written By Ellie Neill

Companies House has recently announced important changes that will affect all companies filing their accounts. Starting 1 April 2027, all companies will be required to file their annual accounts digitally, using commercial software. This means that web and paper based options will no longer be available.

Here’s a quick summary of what’s changing:

  • Digital filing only: From April 2027, accounts must be filed using approved accounting software.

  • More detailed reporting: Small and micro-entity companies will need to include profit and loss accounts.

  • Audit exemptions and accounting periods: Other changes will also come into effect — more guidance will follow.

Why these changes are happening

This is part of a wider reform under the Economic Crime and Corporate Transparency Act 2023. Moving to software filing aims to:

  • Improve accuracy

  • Reduce errors and formatting issues

  • Speed up processing times

  • Help Companies House prevent fraud and other financial crime

By making profit and loss data more accessible, these changes will improve transparency for lenders and other stakeholders, while also preventing misuse of minimal disclosure options.

What you need to do

If you already file your accounts using software - great news, there’s no action required. Otherwise, you have until April 2027 to make the switch. Companies House recommends:

If you have questions, Companies House can be contacted at enquiries@companieshouse.gov.uk.

We’re here to help.
At Indie Financials, we’ll keep you updated as these changes come into force. Get in touch with us if you’d like advice on choosing the right software to file your accounts, we can help you prepare well in advance.

Ellie Neill
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