Why changes to Companies House accounts matter for the UK's economy

The way companies file accounts with Companies House is changing.  

From 1 April 2028, all companies will need to file accounts with Companies House using commercial software, marking a significant step in the UK’s move towards a fully digital filing environment. While 2028 may seem a while away, the reforms form part of a wider programme to improve the quality, reliability and transparency of information on the Companies House register. 

For accountants, understanding what is changing, why it is happening, and how to support clients through the transition will be key to a successful implementation. 

What accountants need to know about software-only filing

While many accountancy firms may already use software to prepare and file accounts, it is important to check that these systems support the new requirements.

Accountants should also consider which clients may be affected by the closure of Companies House paper and web-based accounts filing services, particularly those who currently rely on these routes. Identifying affected clients early and planning their transition to software can help reduce disruption ahead of the changes.

From this date, Companies House web and paper routes will be closed for accounts filings, but will remain open for other statutory filings.

If companies need to find software to file accounts, we recommend using the tool created by Companies House. Those filing package accounts can find approved software here.

Why are the reforms happening?

The current accounts filing framework was built for a very different business environment. Over the years, technology has transformed how companies prepare, submit and use financial information. At the same time, expectations around transparency, data quality and trust in corporate information have increased. 

Millions of users rely on Companies House data every year, including lenders, investors, suppliers, customers, government organisations and members of the public. Decisions worth millions of pounds are often based on information held on the register. 

Part of the wider Companies House transformation programme, accounts reform aims to ensure that information filed on the register is more accurate, complete and digitally accessible, helping to increase confidence in UK’s business environment. 

Why modernise now? 

Many organisations already prepare accounts digitally and use software to manage financial reporting. However, the filing process itself can still involve varying formats and levels of data quality. 

Moving to a fully digital filing environment creates an opportunity to improve consistency, reduce errors and make information easier to analyse and compare.  

What role does iXBRL play? 

iXBRL (Inline eXtensible Business Reporting Language) allows key pieces of information within accounts to be tagged using standard definitions, and embeds these tags within an HTML document. This makes the data both human and machine-readable, enabling faster analysis and more consistent interpretation. 

Many accountants will already be familiar with iXBRL through tax filing requirements. For others, the important point is that the technology helps turn accounts from static documents into structured digital information.  

Companies will not necessarily need to understand the technical detail. In many cases, the tagging process will be handled by accounting software and professional advisers.  

What role will accountants play? 

Accountants will be central to the success of accounts reform. Many firms already use software capable of producing iXBRL accounts, meaning the changes may involve adapting existing processes rather than introducing entirely new ways of working.

In practical terms, accountants have plenty of time to prepare, but Companies House recommends using this time to review whether current software will support the new filing requirements, identify affected clients, and begin building awareness of the changes. Early planning can help ensure a smooth transition ahead of implementation in April 2028. 

Looking ahead 

The reforms represent more than a technology change. They are part of a broader shift towards better-quality corporate data and a more transparent economy.

For accountants, the next two years present an opportunity not only to prepare clients for new requirements, but also to help shape the future of digital business reporting in the UK. 

3 things accountants can do now to prepare 

1. Visit https://changestoukcompanylaw.campaign.gov.uk/changes-to-accounts/ to make sure you’re familiar with the upcoming changes 
2. Review your current software to check whether your current solution supports the new Companies House requirements
3. Identify clients who may need more support with the changes, and start conversations early