Running a Community Interest Company (CIC) means balancing your mission with your responsibilities as a director. And one of the most important legal obligations? Filing your CIC accounts and annual report on time.
It might sound like a routine task, but many CICs fall behind simply because they don’t realise what’s required — or when. Miss the deadline, and you could face fines, compliance issues, or even risk being struck off the register.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through exactly what you need to file, when, and how to do it properly. Whether you’re a brand-new CIC or have been operating for years, this checklist will help you stay compliant and penalty-free.
Understanding CIC Accounts Submission Requirements
Unlike standard limited companies, CICs must file two separate documents every year:
- Annual statutory accounts to Companies House
- A Community Interest Company (CIC) Report (Form CIC34) to the CIC Regulator
Both must be filed by the same deadline – and yes, even micro-entities must file both.
What Are CIC Accounts?
CIC accounts include all the standard financial documents required of limited companies:
- Balance sheet
- Profit and loss account
- Notes to the accounts
- A director’s report (depending on size)
These are filed with Companies House, just like any other company.
In addition, CICs must also submit a CIC report, which outlines how the business has benefited the community, complied with the asset lock, and involved stakeholders in decision-making.
Filing Deadlines for CICs
The filing deadline depends on your company’s financial year-end:
- For existing CICs, accounts and reports are due 9 months after the end of your financial year.
- For new CICs, the first accounts are due 21 months from the date of incorporation.
Important: These deadlines apply to both the statutory accounts (Companies House) and the CIC report (CIC Regulator).
Step-by-Step Checklist for Submitting CIC Accounts On Time
1. Know Your Filing Deadline
This is where everything starts. You can check your deadline on the Companies House website. Set calendar reminders or use accounting software to keep track. Missing this step leads to most late filings.
2. Prepare Your Financial Statements
You’ll need to prepare:
- Balance sheet
- Profit and loss account
- Notes to the accounts
- (Optional) Director’s report (depending on your size)
If your CIC qualifies as a micro-entity, you can use simplified reporting — but this only applies to the financial statements, not the CIC report.
3. Complete the CIC Report (Form CIC34)
The CIC34 report is mandatory for all CICs — even if you’re small or dormant. This report must include:
- A summary of your community activities and impact
- Evidence of stakeholder involvement or consultation
- Director benefits or dividends paid
- Asset lock compliance and asset transfers
Download the latest version of the CIC report form directly from the gov.uk website.
💡 Note: The CIC report must be posted — there’s currently no online submission method.
4. Get Approval from the Board
Once prepared, the accounts and CIC report must be approved and signed by a director. Hold a board meeting, approve the documents, and ensure everything is signed off correctly — especially for the paper CIC report.
5. Submit to Companies House and the CIC Regulator
Now it’s time to file:
- Send the accounts to Companies House:
- by post
- Post the CIC report to the CIC Regulator:
- Address:
CIC Regulator, Companies House, Crown Way, Cardiff CF14 3UZ
- Address:
Make sure both arrive before the deadline. Send them together or separately — just don’t leave it to the last minute.
Common Pitfalls That Lead to Late Submission
Leaving It Too Late
Preparing accounts and the CIC report takes time — especially if you’re doing it all manually. Leaving it to the last minute creates stress and increases the risk of mistakes.
Using Non-Specialist Accountants
General accountants may be great with limited companies — but CICs are different. We’ve seen plenty of well-meaning professionals submit incomplete or incorrect CIC reports because they’re unaware of the specific requirements.
Frequently Asked Questions About Filing CIC Accounts
Do I have to file both the accounts and the CIC report?
Yes. They’re two separate documents filed to two separate bodies.
Can I file the CIC report online?
No — it must be posted to the CIC Regulator.
What’s the deadline for filing?
9 months after your financial year-end (21 months after incorporation for your first return).
Can I use micro-entity accounts?
Yes — but this only simplifies your financial statements, not the CIC report.
What if I file late?
Companies House will issue automatic fines. Repeated late filing can lead to strike-off procedures.
Can I change my accounting reference date?
Yes — but this must be requested via Companies House and approved.
Why Use CIC Specialists Like KG Accountants?
- We understand CIC compliance inside and out — from asset locks to dividend restrictions.
- We ensure your reporting reflects your impact — no missed details, no compliance gaps.
- We file everything correctly and on time, every year.
- We offer strategic advice to help your CIC grow while staying fully compliant.
Choosing the right accountant is more than a financial decision — it’s a safeguard for your mission. With KG Accountants, you can run your CIC with confidence, knowing the technical side is covered by true specialists.
How We Can Help!
Filing your CIC accounts doesn’t need to be a headache — especially when you work with professionals who specialise in CIC compliance.
At KG Accountants, we don’t just “do your books.” We help you:
✅ Prepare your accounts accurately and efficiently
✅ Complete your CIC34 report with the right tone, structure and detail
✅ Submit everything on time — year after year
✅ Stay ahead of deadlines with reminders and hands-on support
Call us today on 0207 078 7477 or complete our enquiry form to book your FREE initial consultation. We’re here to help you stay compliant, avoid fines, and focus on what really matters — your community impact.
Categories: CIC, CIC Accounting, CIC Accounts, cic accounts, CIC34, Community Interest Companies, filing CIC Account, filing CIC Account
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