Comparison guide
Annual Accounts vs Confirmation Statement
Annual accounts report company financial information. A confirmation statement confirms that the information Companies House holds about the company is up to date.
Reviewed 18 July 2026 · Sources checked: Companies House, Confirmation statement
| Factor | Annual accounts | Confirmation statement |
|---|---|---|
| Main purpose | Shows financial information for an accounting period. | Confirms company details such as officers, registered office and share information. |
| Typical frequency | Normally filed after each financial year. | Normally filed at least once every 12 months. |
| Common mistake | Confusing Companies House accounts with a Company Tax Return. | Assuming no filing is needed because nothing changed. |
Prepare accounts when
- - The company financial year has ended.
- - You need records ready for Companies House and tax work.
Prepare a confirmation statement when
- - The review period is ending.
- - Company details need to be checked or updated.
Common misconceptions
- - Filing one does not mean the other has been filed.
- - Dormant companies can still have Companies House duties.