Companies House Changes 2028: What This Means for You
Running a Limited company is not for the faint hearted
If you’ve seen the latest Companies House update and felt your stomach drop… breathe. Yes, changes are coming. No, you don’t need to panic. And yes you’ve got plenty of time to get ready.
The government has now confirmed how the Economic Crime and Corporate Transparency Act (ECCT Act) will roll out, and the big shift is all about how companies file their annual accounts.
So… what’s actually changing?
From 1 April 2028, three big things kick in:
Small companies and micro‑entities must file a profit & loss account
This is the headline change. Even the smallest companies will now need to show their profits to Companies House.
But here’s the important bit:
You can opt out of having your Profits published on the public register. The details of how this opt‑out will work are still to come, but the option will exist.
So yes, you’ll file it but you won’t necessarily have to share it with the world.
2. All accounts must be filed through software
No more:
Paper filings or PDFs
From April 2028, software filing becomes mandatory for every company, regardless of size.
If you already file through software or your accountant handles it for you, you’re probably fine. If you’re still using the web portal, it’s time to start planning a switch.
3. The timeline has been pushed back
Originally planned for 2027, the changes now start on 1 April 2028.
That gives you:
✔ One full accounting year ✔ Plus nine months ✔ A total of 21 months to prepare
Plenty of breathing room.
Why is this happening?
The ECCT Act aims to improve transparency, reduce economic crime and modernise the filing system. Companies House is moving towards a more digital, more secure, more standardised way of working.
Focus is about making the system more reliable and reducing misuse.
What do you need to do now?
If you’re already filing through software or using an accountant, you might not need to do anything yet. But if you’re not, here’s your gentle nudge:
1. Check how you currently file your accounts
If you use WebFiling or paper, you’ll need to switch.
2. Make sure you have your company authentication code
You’ll need this for software filing.
3. Apply for a presenter account (if you file yourself)
This will be required for software submissions.
4. Start exploring software options
Companies House will provide a tool to help you find the right package.
5. Don’t leave it until 2028
Switching early means no last‑minute stress.
What this means for small businesses
Here’s the honest truth: For most small businesses, this won’t be as dramatic as it sounds.
If you already work with an accountant, they’ll handle the transition for you. If you file yourself, you’ll just need to get comfortable with using software instead of the web portal.
The biggest change is the mandatory P&L filing, but the opt‑out for publication should ease most concerns.
How we can help
If you’re unsure what these changes mean for your business, or you want help choosing the right software, I’m here to make it simple.
I work with small businesses and sole traders across Surbiton, Kingston and Thames Ditton and my whole mission is to make accounting feel less overwhelming.
If you’d like support preparing for the 2028 changes, just get in touch and we’ll walk through it together.