what is an annual return?
Annual returns are designed to ensure that a company's details are correct and recorded accurately at Companies House.

The annual return includes details of

• your registered office

• your company secretary’s name and address (if appointed)

• the names and addresses of your directors

• your shareholders

• your former shareholders (i.e. those who have ceased to be shareholders during the past year)

You must sign the annual return as true and correct, and make sure it is filed at Companies House by the due date. You must also include the filing fee.

Most forms including annual returns can be filed online. This is preferable for many people as forms are updated quicker on the register when filed online, and the filing fee is lower at only £15.

If you do not file your annual return by your due date then Companies House will show your company as being non-compliant and will report this against your company’s name on their website. Any application for a good standing certificate will be refused.

If the delay in filing your annual return is extended, or if it is not filed at all, Companies House will commence proceedings that will result in the company being dissolved.

For these reasons it is vital that you remember to file your annual return and keep Companies House up-to-date.