Filing Your Accounts is Changing: Is Your Business Technologically Ready?
Your business is facing a mandatory technology shift by 2027, and it has nothing to do with AI or the cloud. It’s about how you file your accounts, and ignoring it could expose your company to significant security risks.
That recent email from Companies House wasn't just another notification. From 1 April 2027, every UK business must file its accounts using third-party commercial software. The old, familiar methods are being retired for good.
But this isn't a simple case of 'out with the old, in with the new.' The real challenge isn't just picking an app; it's navigating a minefield of software choices to find one that won't compromise your financial data. In this post, we'll break down the hidden IT dangers of this change and give you a clear plan to navigate it safely.
The New Software Maze: It's Not Just About Picking an App
This move forces every business owner to become a software procurement expert overnight. Just grabbing the first result on Google is a gamble when your company's sensitive financial data is on the line.
Suddenly, you're faced with a new set of worries:
Who can you trust? The market will be swamped with options. How do you know which provider is compliant, secure, and won't disappear in six months? The financial integrity of your business is riding on this decision.
Is your accountant ready? This change impacts your accountant, too. Are they prepared? What software will they use? You need to be sure your systems and theirs can talk to each other without a hitch.
Is your own tech up to scratch? Can your current IT setup even handle new software? More importantly, is it secure enough? Dropping a new application into your business can open up security holes if it's not managed properly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: What is changing with Companies House accounts filing?
From 1 April 2027, all UK companies must file their annual accounts using third-party commercial software. The government's own web and paper-based filing systems will be permanently closed.
Q2: Will I have to pay for this new software?
The term "commercial software" means it comes from a third-party provider, not necessarily that it has a cost. While many providers will offer paid versions with advanced features, it is expected that free, basic filing options will also be available to businesses.
Q3: Why is Companies House making this change?
This change is part of the wider Economic Crime and Corporate Transparency Act 2023. The primary goals are to improve the accuracy and reliability of the data on the companies register, accelerate processing times, and enhance the ability to detect and prevent economic crime.
Q4: What if I already use an accountant to file my accounts?
You should speak with your accountant to understand their plan for this transition. It's crucial to know which software they intend to use and to be confident that it is a secure and reliable choice for handling your company's sensitive financial data.
Q5: When do I need to be ready for this change?
The mandatory switch to software-only filing takes effect on 1 April 2027. However, given the need to research, select, and implement a new software solution, it is highly recommended that businesses begin their planning and transition process well in advance of this deadline.
Your Best Friend in This Change: Good IT Support
This is exactly where good IT support stops being a 'nice-to-have' and becomes essential. This change is about more than just meeting a new filing requirement; it's about safeguarding the financial core of your business.
Your IT support partner should be doing the technical legwork, analysing software for security flaws and long-term reliability so you don't have to. They're the ones who should handle the technical side of the rollout, making sure new apps work with your existing systems without causing chaos. They act as your digital gatekeeper, ensuring your data stays locked down and your network isn't left vulnerable.
This is just one change. More will follow. Having a dedicated IT partner means you're ready for whatever comes next, instead of constantly playing catch-up.
You Don't Have to Figure This Out Alone.
The new Companies House rule is a perfect example of how running a business and managing technology are now the same job. For companies without a dedicated IT team, this is a real headache waiting to happen.
At Kimbley IT, we live and breathe these challenges. We're not just here to fix things when they break; we're here to give you the straightforward advice and practical support that turns a major worry into a problem solved.
We'll work with you and your accountant to:
Pinpoint your exact needs and recommend the right, secure software for the job.
Assist you with the setup, ensuring it's a smooth and safe process.
Provide the backup you need to stay compliant, secure, and confident long after the switch.
April 2027 might seem far off, but the groundwork needs to start now. Don't let a compliance task turn into a technology crisis.
Book a video call today, and let's discuss how we can help you navigate the Companies House changes confidently.
