How to File Companies House Accounts Digitally at Low Cost | BBBB
How to File Companies House Accounts Digitally at Low Cost (Without Expensive Accounting Software)
(Learn how to file Companies House accounts digitally without expensive accounting software. A simple, low-cost solution for UK small businesses.)
Many UK business owners may recently have discovered the new Companies House rules requiring Annual Accounts and Confirmation Statements to be filed digitally.
Like many small business owners, I was caught out by this change.
For years, I had prepared my company accounts using Microsoft Excel (you can also use the free alternative LibreOffice Calc). Suddenly, I needed a digital filing solution that worked with Companies House requirements.
I asked Companies House for an extension, and thankfully they granted me an additional three months to find a cost-effective solution.
The Problem with Expensive Accounting Software
Several accountants recommended Xero Accounting software.
While Xero is an excellent platform, the costs quickly add up if you own multiple companies.
In my case:
- I own 5 companies
- That would mean paying for 5 separate monthly subscriptions
I was also quoted approximately:
£600 + VAT
for accountants to file the accounts on my behalf.
For many small businesses and sole traders, those costs are difficult to justify.
The Affordable Solution I Found
Fortunately, I found a much simpler and more affordable option:
👉 Inform Direct
https://www.informdirect.co.uk
Inform Direct provides a Companies House submission service starting from:
- £12.55 per month for one company
- Less than £1 per additional company
This made the process dramatically more affordable for businesses with multiple companies.
How Inform Direct Works
The process was surprisingly straightforward.
I simply:
- Entered the totals from my spreadsheets into Inform Direct’s online forms
- Added the company details
- Entered the Companies House authentication code
- Submitted the filings digitally
The entire setup process was quick and easy.
Useful Dashboard and Filing Reminders
One of the best features is the dashboard.
It allows you to track:
- Companies House filing deadlines
- Annual accounts deadlines
- Confirmation Statement dates
This makes ongoing company administration much easier and helps avoid late filing penalties.
A Good Option for Small Businesses
For small business owners who:
- already use spreadsheets
- don’t need full accounting software
- want to reduce costs
Inform Direct may be a very practical solution.
In my case, it could potentially save thousands of pounds over time.
Free Accounting Spreadsheet Template
If you would like a simple accounting spreadsheet template, feel free to contact us:
Coming Next: Making Tax Digital (MTD)
In our next blog post, we will explain:
- Making Tax Digital (MTD)
- VAT submissions
- Cost-effective MTD software options for UK businesses
Final Thoughts
The new Companies House digital filing requirements can feel frustrating at first, especially for small businesses used to simple spreadsheet accounting.
However, affordable solutions do exist.
Hopefully this article helps other UK business owners find a practical and cost-effective way to stay compliant.
Wishing you a very successful year, and God bless.
Andy Welcome
The BBBB helps UK sole traders, tradespeople, and small businesses build trust online with affordable business profiles, customer reviews, and transparent complaint handling. Unlike traditional review platforms, BBBB is designed specifically for SMEs looking to promote their business, attract more customers, and demonstrate accountability. Create your free business profile today at 👉 https://www.bbbb.org.uk
Looking to build trust for your business?
Create your free BBBB profile today.
https://www.bbbb.org.uk/directory
