What Changes for Companies House Filings in Spring 2026?
As we enter 2026, one of the biggest shifts in UK company law is approaching: the full implementation of restrictions on third-party filings under the Economic Crime and Corporate Transparency Act 2023 (ECCTA). From spring 2026 (exact date to be confirmed by Companies House, expected March–May), the rules for who can submit documents to Companies House on behalf of a company will change significantly.
This is part of a broader push to enhance corporate transparency, reduce fraud, and ensure only verified or authorised individuals handle sensitive filings.
The Key Change: Third-Party Filings Become ACSP-Only
Currently, accountants, formation agents, solicitors, and other professionals can file documents (e.g., confirmation statements, annual accounts, officer changes) on behalf of clients without special authorisation.
From spring 2026:
Only registered Authorised Corporate Service Providers (ACSPs) — or their employees — will be able to submit any filings on behalf of another company or individual.
Non-registered third parties will have their submissions rejected.
This affects:
Confirmation statements (CS01)
Annual accounts
Changes to directors, registered office, shares, PSCs, SIC codes
Incorporations
And most other routine filings
ACSPs are regulated entities (typically supervised under UK anti-money laundering rules, e.g., by HMRC or professional bodies) that have registered with Companies House and been authorised.
What Hasn't Changed (Yet)
Company officers can still file themselves: Verified directors (with a personal code from identity verification) can continue submitting filings directly for their own company via WebFiling or software — no ACSP needed.
Identity verification for directors/PSCs is already mandatory (since November 2025 for new appointments, with transition for existing until late 2026).
Why This Matters for Your Business
If you rely on an accountant, agent, or solicitor to handle Companies House filings:
Check if they're registered as an ACSP (public list on GOV.UK).
If not, they'll lose the ability to file on your behalf from spring 2026 — you'll need to either file yourself or switch to a registered ACSP.
For non-UK resident directors or busy owners, outsourcing to a registered ACSP offers convenience, expert review, and peace of mind.
How to Prepare
Verify your directors/PSCs if not already done (direct via GOV.UK One Login – free – or through an ACSP).
Ask your current provider about their ACSP status.
Consider a specialist remote ACSP for seamless digital handling.
At acsp.vip, we're fully registered (ACSP No. AP003554) and ready to support you with filings, verifications, and formations – all 100% remote.
If you're unsure how these changes affect you, contact us for a no-obligation chat.
