🚨 Dormant company accounts can no longer be filed manually.
From 2026 onwards, Companies House only accepts dormant company accounts submitted through approved accounting software. As a result, most directors can no longer file dormant accounts themselves.
This update affects both UK and non-UK company owners.
In this guide, we explain:
- What a dormant company is
- Who must still file accounts
- The 2026 software-only filing rule
- Why using an ACSP-authorised accountant is now essential
- How overseas directors can remain compliant
What Is a Dormant Company?
A dormant company is a UK registered company that has had no significant accounting transactions during its accounting period.
This typically includes companies that:
- Have never traded
- Have stopped trading
- Were incorporated but never used
- Are owned by non-UK directors for future business use
⚠️ However, dormant companies are still required to file accounts every year.
Do Dormant Companies Still Need to File Accounts?
Yes — dormant companies are not exempt.
Every UK limited company must file either:
- Dormant company accounts, or
- Full / micro-entity accounts
Failure to file may result in:
- Automatic penalties (£150–£1,500)
- Company strike-off
- Director compliance issues
- Difficulties reopening or selling the company
🚨 2026 Rule: Manual Filing Is No Longer Allowed
This is the most important change directors must be aware of.
As a result, From 2026:
- ❌ Manual web filing is no longer accepted
- ✅ Dormant accounts must be filed via approved accounting software
- ❌ Submissions made manually will be automatically rejected
Companies House guidance on dormant company accounts
👉 This means directors must now use:
- Accounting software, or
- A certified accountant / authorised agent
Why an ACSP Is Now Essential
Liberty Accounting & Training Ltd is:
- ✅ Certified HMRC Agent
✅ Authorised Corporate Service Provider (ACSP) registered with Companies House
✅ Approved to submit filings using compliant accounting software
As an ACSP, we are legally authorised to:
File dormant company accounts under the 2026 rules
Act on behalf of UK and non-UK directors
Submit documents securely and accurately to Companies House
In addition, This is particularly important for overseas directors, who may not have access to UK filing systems.
Dormant filing for Non-UK Directors
If you are not based in the UK, dormant account filing can be challenging under the new rules.
We regularly assist:
Non-UK resident directors
Overseas entrepreneurs
International investors
Directors without UK National Insurance numbers
Everything is handled 100% remotely, and you receive Companies House confirmation once filing is complete.
Dormant Company Accounts Filing – Only £49 (2026 Compliant)
Liberty Accounting & Training Ltd provides a fully software-compliant solution:
Dormant company accounts filing for £49
No VAT
No hidden charges
Filing via approved accounting software
Submission within 24 hours
Email confirmation from Companies House
Support for UK & non-UK directors
👉 File yours here:
https://libertyaccountinguk.com/dormant-company-accounts-filing/
Can a Company with a Bank Account Still Be Dormant?
Sometimes — but not always.
Unused bank account → may still qualify
Bank charges or interest → usually not dormant
We always review eligibility before filing to ensure full compliance.
Dormant Accounts vs Micro-Entity Accounts
Dormant Accounts
Micro-Entity Accounts
No trading
Some trading
No income or expenses
Small transactions
Simplified balance sheet
Profit & loss required
Lower compliance
Higher reporting
If you’re unsure, professional review is strongly recommended.
What Happens If You Ignore the 2026 Rules?
If you attempt to file dormant accounts manually:
❌ Your filing will be rejected
❌ Deadlines may be missed
❌ Penalties may be issued automatically
Using an ACSP-authorised accountant avoids disruption and ensures compliance.
Final Thoughts
Dormant companies still have legal filing obligations, and from 2026 filing is no longer a DIY process.
By using a Certified HMRC Agent & ACSP, you ensure:
Software-compliant filing
No rejected submissions
Compliance for UK & overseas directors
Complete peace of mind
👉 File YOURS Accounts – £49 (No VAT)
https://libertyaccountinguk.com/dormant-company-accounts-filing/
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