From April 2027, Company Accounts Must Be Filed via Software

From April 2027, company accounts must be filed via software (no more web or paper) 

If you currently upload company accounts yourself to Companies House using the web service or send paper accounts, that route is closing. For accounts filed on or after 1 April 2027, you’ll need to use compatible (approved) software to file. This applies to all companies, including those filing dormant accounts.  

What exactly is changing?

Companies House is moving to software‑only accounts filing to improve data quality, security and traceability. As part of this change, the web and paper routes for accounts will close, while the web services will remain available for other statutory filings (for example, confirmation statements and director updates).  

Why the change?

These reforms stem from the Economic Crime and Corporate Transparency Act 2023, a UK-wide law designed to enhance transparency, combat fraud, and improve the accuracy of information held at Companies House. Under the new rules, companies will no longer be able to file annual accounts directly with Companies House. Instead, filings must be submitted through approved software, ensuring consistent formatting, reducing errors, and strengthening the overall integrity of corporate records. 

Timeline

From 1 April 2027: accounts must be filed using software only. Web and paper filing routes for accounts will be closed from that date.  

What you should do now

1. Check how you currently file.

If you still rely on the web or paper route for your accounts, plan to switch to compliant software well before April 2027.

2. Choose approved commercial software.

Companies House requires all accounts to be filed using compatible software from April 2027. The official Companies House tool on GOV.UK lists approved software options here: Find software for filing company accounts. You can use these tools yourself or work with an accountant who files on your behalf — either way, software filing is mandatory. 

3. Familiarise yourself with the process.

While you can’t do an official “test filing,” you can explore the chosen software in advance, understand the steps involved, and ensure your records are in the correct format. This is where working with a firm like Naylor Accountancy Services can help — we can walk you through the process, make sure your accounts meet Companies House requirements, and file them on your behalf with no last-minute surprises. 

What stays the same (for now) 

You’ll still use Companies House web services for other statutory filings that are not accounts. 

Need expert guidance or assistance? 

At Naylor Accountancy Services, we support business owners across the Southeast and the rest of the UK with clear, compliant, and timely company filings. We’ll guide you through every step so you can focus on running your business, knowing your statutory requirements are in safe hands. 

Take the next step today.  

Whether you want full filing support or expert guidance, our team will ensure your accounts are submitted accurately and on time. Contact us now to get started. 

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