The most recent and highly relevant Companies House updates for UK businesses, especially small- to medium-sized enterprises and those working with accountants, focus on the Economic Crime and Corporate Transparency Act 2023 (ECCTA) reforms. As of mid-March 2026, key elements have seen significant delays and reviews, providing relief on compliance burdens while other changes (like fee increases) are already in effect.
At DBM Accountancy Ltd, we stay ahead of these evolving requirements to ensure our clients remain compliant without unnecessary stress or cost. As an Authorised Corporate Service Provider (ACSP) registered with Companies House, we handle filings securely and efficiently on your behalf.
Major Delays to Presenter Identity Verification and ACSP Requirements
One of the biggest pieces of recent news is the postponement of mandatory identity verification for presenters (anyone filing documents at Companies House) and the requirement for third-party agents to register as ACSPs.
- Originally planned for Spring 2026, Companies House has now delayed this to no earlier than November 2026 (as confirmed in the updated ECCTA outline transition plan on 19 January 2026).
- This gives more time to complete the ongoing 12-month transition for directors and Persons with Significant Control (PSCs), which started in November 2025.
What this means for you: If you use an accountant or agent like DBM Accountancy Ltd for your Companies House filings (e.g., confirmation statements, accounts, or changes to directors), you won't face new hurdles yet. We are already ACSP-authorised, so when the rules kick in later this year, your filings will continue smoothly. This delay reduces immediate pressure and allows better preparation.
Accounts Filing Reforms Paused and Under Review
Another welcome development for small and micro businesses is the pause on major changes to how companies file accounts.
- Reforms under ECCTA (including ending exemptions for small/micro companies on public disclosure of profit and loss accounts, and potential mandatory software-based filing) were due to start in April 2027.
- Companies House has confirmed these will not proceed in April 2027 and are now "under review" following stakeholder feedback about compliance burdens.
- Any future changes will come with at least 21 months' notice.
What this means for you: Small businesses can breathe easier—no sudden requirement to make more detailed financials public or switch systems imminently. Current filing rules (including abbreviated accounts for qualifying small/micro entities) remain in place. We monitor this closely and will guide you if/when updates emerge, ensuring your accounts stay accurate and compliant.
Recent Fee Increases (Effective 1 February 2026)
Not all news is a delay; some changes are already here:
- Incorporation fee (digital): Increased from £50 to £100.
- Confirmation statement fee (digital): Increased from £34 to £50.
- Other adjustments include voluntary strike-off now at £13 (a decrease in some cases).
These rises help fund Companies House's anti-fraud upgrades and register improvements.
What this means for you: Budget for slightly higher costs on new setups or annual filings. At DBM Accountancy Ltd, we optimise your compliance processes to minimise these impacts, for example, by bundling services or advising on timing.
Why These Updates Matter and How DBM Accountancy Ltd Can Help
These March 2026-positioned developments show the government responding to business concerns, balancing transparency and anti-crime measures with practicality. The delays offer breathing room, but preparation remains key especially as director/PSC ID verification continues and presenter rules approach in late 2026.
At DBM Accountancy Ltd, we:
- Handle all your Companies House filings as an authorised ACSP.
- Keep you updated on ECCTA changes via personalised advice.
- Ensure your accounts, confirmation statements, and director updates meet current (and future) standards efficiently.
If you're unsure about your company's status, need help with ID verification, or want to discuss how these updates affect your business, contact us today for a free consultation. Stay compliant, stay informed let us take the admin off your plate.
Sources: GOV.UK ECCTA transition plan (updated January 2026), Companies House guidance on accounts changes, and official announcements on fees and reforms.