If you have filed a confirmation statement and subsequently realised that it contains incorrect information, you should rectify the error as soon as possible. Thankfully, this is almost always incredibly simple to do. Below, we explain how to correct mistakes on a filed confirmation statement.
How do I correct a mistake on the confirmation statement?
If incorrect information is provided in a confirmation statement, it should be re-submitted using the relevant section of Companies House form CS01:
- CS01 Part 1: standard industrial classification (SIC) code
- CS01 Part 2: statement of capital
- CS01 Part 3: trading status of shares, or exemption from keeping a PSC register
- CS01 Part 4: shareholder information
Form RP04 must be submitted alongside the relevant part of form CS01. Form RP04 is used to notify Companies House of a second filing of a document that was properly delivered but contains inaccuracies which are showing on the public register. GOV.UK provides further guidance on using form RP04 to file a second filing.
Limited liability partnerships (LLPs) should use form LL RP04 as an alternative to form RP04. However, there is no paper equivalent for parts 1-4 of form CS01 – these must be completed online.
Form RP04 (and LL RP04) must be submitted on paper by post (there is currently no online option) and it can take up to two weeks for Companies House to process.
What is a confirmation statement?
Companies are legally required to submit a confirmation statement each and every year to Companies House. Previously known as an annual return, a confirmation statement must be filed by all companies regardless of their trading status. (e.g. even those which are dormant or not trading).
A confirmation statement must be completed at least once every 12 months (known as a ‘review period’). It involves company officials (e.g. directors or company secretaries) checking and confirming that the information held by Companies House is accurate and up to date.
If any company information has changed since the last filing, the following details can be updated on the confirmation statement (form CS01):
- Principal business activities, defined by Standard Industrial Classification (SIC) codes
- Statement of capital
- Trading status of shares
- Exemption from keeping a register of People with Significant Control (PSC)
- Shareholder information
However, separate forms must be completed and submitted to Companies House if any of the following details need to be updated:
- Registered office address
- Single Alternative Inspection Location (SAIL address)
- People with Significant Control (PSC)
- Company directors and secretary
- The company’s registered email address
Even if nothing has changed during the review period, it is still necessary to file a confirmation statement.
Why is it important that confirmation statements are accurate?
Company directors have a duty to submit confirmation statements under section 853A of the Companies Act 2006. Failure to do so can result in personal liability, fines, prosecutions, and even the company being struck off the register.
Maintaining the accuracy of company information held by Companies House is vital. Delays in updating information can affect a company’s credit standing, so it is important that any changes to company officers must be relayed to Companies House within 14 days.
Any discoveries of incorrect information held on the public register in the course of due diligence could lead to problems with banks and lenders. In extreme cases, it could result in planned takeovers or mergers collapsing.
We can help to fix mistakes on your confirmation statement
Quality Company Formations can assist with correcting confirmation statements and ensure that accurate details of your company are on the public register. If you need any help, speak to our Company Secretarial Team today by calling 0203 984 5389, or email [email protected].
