On 9 June 2026, the Government confirmed how it intends to implement the accounts reform measures set out in the Economic Crime and Corporate Transparency Act 2023 (ECCTA). These changes will affect how all UK registered companies file their annual accounts with Companies House. The reforms are designed to improve transparency and data quality on the register, modernise filing practices and help tackle economic crime.

Earlier this year, the Government paused these ECCTA provisions affecting company accounts but, following extensive consultation, the measures have now been reinstated and a clear implementation timeline has been set out.

What is changing? 

From April 2028, the following new requirements will apply to all UK registered companies:

  • Software-only filing

    All companies will be required to file their annual accounts in iXBRL format using commercial software. The Companies House web-based portal and paper filing systems will be closed for accounts filings from April 2028. A list of approved software providers is available on GOV.UK.

  • Profit and loss accounts for small companies and micro-entities

    Small companies and micro-entities will be required to file profit and loss accounts with Companies House for the first time, bringing them into line with larger companies. However, they will be able to opt out of having their profit and loss accounts publicly available on the register if they have concerns about commercially sensitive information.

  • Stronger audit exemption statements

    Companies claiming an audit exemption will need to satisfy the requirements for and provide a more detailed eligibility statement.

  • No more abridged accounts

    The option for certain companies to file a simplified set of abridged accounts is being withdrawn.

  • Single submission of all parts of the reports accounts

    Every component of a company’s accounts and reports must be submitted as a single filing, rather than in separate parts.

  • Fewer accounting reference period shortenings

    The number of times a company can shorten its accounting reference period will be reduced. There is no more detail on this at the moment.

Implementation timeline

All of these changes take effect in April 2028, one year later than originally proposed, giving companies over a year and a half from time of writing to prepare. Companies House will be writing to all companies at their registered email address with further information and guidance.

What should companies be doing now?

  • Review your current filing arrangements.
  • If you currently file accounts directly through the Companies House web portal or on paper, you will need to move to compatible software, or engage an agent who uses it, well in advance of April 2028.
  • If you are a small company or micro-entity, you should be aware that a profit and loss account will need to be prepared for filing purposes going forward, even if you choose not to have it published publicly.

If you have any questions about how these changes apply to your company or would like to discuss next steps, please contact one of the authors or a member of the Corporate team.

Contributors

Emma Greville Williams

Practice Development Lawyer

Paul McLaughlin

Partner