A New Digital Era for Company Filings
Companies House has confirmed a major shift in how UK businesses will file their annual accounts.
From 1 April 2027, all companies will be required to file their annual accounts using approved software — marking the end of web and paper-based submissions.
This reform is part of the government’s wider initiative under the Economic Crime and Corporate Transparency Act 2023, designed to improve data accuracy, security, and transparency across the corporate landscape.
Firms, directors, and accountants are being advised to start preparing now to ensure a smooth transition well before the deadline.
What’s Changing
Here’s a summary of the key updates taking effect from April 2027:
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Mandatory digital filing: All company accounts must be filed through commercial software.
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Web and paper-based filing options will be permanently discontinued.
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Profit and loss disclosure: Small and micro-entity companies will need to include a profit and loss account with their filings.
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Audit and reference period updates: Additional reforms to audit exemptions and accounting reference periods are expected, with more details to follow.
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Other filings unaffected: Confirmation statements and director updates can still be submitted through existing online services.
For companies already filing through software (such as Xero, QuickBooks, or Sage), no action is required — but all others must plan ahead to comply.
Why These Changes Matter
The move to digital filing aims to:
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Enhance data accuracy by reducing manual entry and formatting errors.
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Speed up processing and improve how information appears on the public register.
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Combat fraud by ensuring consistent digital verification.
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Increase business confidence, as more reliable data improves credit checks and trade trust.
Additionally, publishing basic profit and loss information will promote greater financial transparency, helping lenders, investors, and partners make more informed decisions about doing business with UK companies.
How to Prepare
To stay compliant, companies should start transitioning early:
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Review your current filing process — determine if you already use compatible software.
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Speak to your accountant or software provider to ensure your systems meet Companies House requirements.
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Test your digital filing setup during your next financial year-end to identify potential issues ahead of 2027.
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Monitor official updates on the UK Government’s Companies House website.
Early adoption will save time, reduce last-minute stress, and ensure ongoing compliance once paper and web options are removed.
Final Thoughts
The 2027 Companies House reforms represent more than just a filing update — they’re a modernisation of the UK’s corporate reporting system.
By embracing digital filing now, businesses can strengthen compliance, reduce risk, and prepare for a future where transparency and technology go hand in hand.
At Ten Piece Limited, we’re helping businesses transition seamlessly to digital compliance, ensuring that every client remains fully aligned with new Companies House and HMRC requirements.
If you’re unsure how these changes may affect your filing process, speak with our team — we’ll guide you every step of the way.
