Companies House Accounts Filing Changes: What Founders Need to Know for 2027

By Sharcross Agyemang, Founder & CEO of Novaen Corporate

Companies House is undergoing the biggest transformation in its 180-year history. The Economic Crime and Corporate Transparency Act (ECCTA) is rolling out changes in phases, and the accounts filing landscape is shifting under everyone's feet.

Here is what founders need to know right now.

The ACSP Timeline Has Moved

The mandatory requirement for third-party filers to register as an Authorised Corporate Service Provider (ACSP) has moved to no earlier than November 2027. Companies House has confirmed they will give at least six months' notice before implementation.

This gives agents and accountants more time to register. But it does not remove the requirement. It delays it.

Director and PSC Identity Verification: Still November 2026

While the ACSP filing deadline moved, director and PSC identity verification did not. Since November 18, 2025, all new directors and PSCs must verify their identity with Companies House. The 12-month transition period ends on November 17, 2026.

After that date, Companies House will add a public note to the register against anyone who has not complied. Unverified individuals will be unable to be appointed as directors or PSCs.

Accounts Filing: Not April 2027

The government has confirmed that accounts filing changes will not be introduced in April 2027. The reforms are still under review. This means the requirement to file accounts using commercial software (rather than paper or webfiling) is further away than expected.

However, the direction of travel is clear. Digital filing through software is coming. Founders who work with a formation agent that already handles digital filing will be ahead of the curve.

What This Means for Your Company

1. Verify your identity now. Every director and PSC should complete Companies House identity verification before November 17, 2026. Do not wait for the deadline.

2. Choose an agent who is preparing for ACSP registration. Even though the deadline moved, working with an agent who has a plan ensures your filings will not be disrupted when the requirement lands.

3. Keep your confirmation statement current. Late filing triggers penalties and a public record that erodes trust.

4. Plan for software filing. Even if the mandate is delayed, filing through software is faster, more accurate, and increasingly the only viable option.

How Novaen Corporate Helps

Novaen Corporate handles the full compliance picture for our clients. We track every deadline, manage every filing, and make sure your company stays on the right side of every change Companies House introduces.

The regulatory landscape is not getting simpler. Working with a partner who understands it means you can focus on building your business while we focus on keeping it compliant.

Contact us to discuss your compliance position and how we can help.

(Author: sharcross-agyemang)