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3 April 2025

Important Deadlines UK Company Owners Should Be Aware Of

Managing a company involves juggling many responsibilities, and keeping track of important financial and legal deadlines is crucial. Missing deadlines can result in penalties, unnecessary stress, and damage to your company’s reputation. As accountants, we are here to ensure you stay ahead of these key dates. Below is an overview of the critical deadlines UK company owners must remember.

1. Confirmation Statement (CS01)

Deadline: Annual

The confirmation statement is a mandatory filing to ensure Companies House has up-to-date information about your company, such as its registered office address, SIC code, and details of directors and shareholders.

  • Filing timeframe: Must be filed once every 12 months.
  • Penalty for missing the deadline: While there is no direct fine for late filing, your company could be struck off the Companies House register.

2. Corporation Tax Payment

Deadline: 9 months and 1 day after your company’s accounting period ends

Corporation Tax is paid on your company’s profits. It’s crucial to ensure the amount is calculated accurately, and HMRC receives it on time.

  • Key tip: Set reminders to pay this before the due date to avoid interest charges on late payments.

3. Corporation Tax Return (CT600)

Deadline: 12 months after your company’s accounting period ends

Alongside paying Corporation Tax, you need to submit a Corporation Tax Return (CT600) to HMRC, providing detailed calculations of how the tax amount was determined.

  • Penalty for missing the deadline: Late submissions attract penalties starting from £100.

4. VAT Returns

Deadline: Quarterly (unless on annual VAT accounting)

If your company is VAT-registered, you must submit VAT returns and pay any VAT owed to HMRC. The deadline for online submissions is usually one calendar month and 7 days after the end of your VAT accounting period.

  • Key tip: Ensure records are kept up to date, as this makes the process smoother.
  • Penalty for late submission: HMRC’s penalties are based on the new points-based system for late filings.

5. PAYE and National Insurance Contributions

Deadline: Monthly or quarterly

If your company employs staff, you must file PAYE information with HMRC and pay associated National Insurance Contributions.

  • Monthly payment deadlines: 22nd of the month (if paying electronically).
  • Quarterly deadlines: 22nd after the end of the quarter.

6. Self-Assessment Tax Return for Directors

Deadline: 31st January (following the tax year end on 5th April)

If you are a company director, you are usually required to file a self-assessment tax return.

  • Key tip: Use accounting software or consult an accountant to streamline the process.
  • Penalty for late filing: £100 for returns up to 3 months late, with additional penalties if the delay persists.

7. Annual Accounts Submission

Deadline: 9 months after the end of your company’s financial year

Annual accounts must be submitted to Companies House, detailing your company’s financial position.

  • Penalty for late filing:
    • 1 day late: £150
    • 1 month late: £375
    • Over 3 months late: £1,500

8. P11D Submission for Employee Benefits

Deadline: 6th July following the end of the tax year

If your company provides benefits such as company cars or private medical insurance, you need to submit P11D forms to HMRC.

  • Penalty for late submission: £100 per 50 employees for each month it is late.

9. Registering for Making Tax Digital (MTD)

Ongoing Requirement: All VAT-registered businesses are required to comply with Making Tax Digital (MTD) rules. Ensure your accounting systems are set up to meet these requirements for VAT and prepare for future MTD expansions.

How to Stay on Top of Deadlines

  • Use digital tools: Set reminders in your calendar or use accounting software to automatically track and notify you of upcoming deadlines.
  • Engage a professional accountant: We can help you manage your accounts and ensure all filings are accurate and submitted on time.
  • Plan ahead: Avoid last-minute submissions by organising your financial documents regularly throughout the year.

Final Thoughts

Meeting statutory deadlines is not just about avoiding fines—it’s about ensuring the smooth operation and credibility of your business. If you’re unsure about any deadlines or need professional assistance, contact our team. We specialise in helping company owners stay compliant and focus on growing their businesses.

Let us handle the deadlines so you can focus on your company’s success!