Every CIC has a 12-month review period. At the end of this period, you’ve got 14 days to file your confirmation statement.
The first period starts from your date of incorporation. After that, it runs 12 months from the date of your last confirmation statement.
Filing Early vs Filing Late
You can file early. If you do, a new review period starts from that date — which can be handy if you want to tidy up your records before a funding application or major event.
File late, though, and the risks mount. While there isn’t an automatic fine like there is with late accounts, the consequences can be serious. Your CIC can appear “overdue” on the public record, and if you keep missing filings, Companies House may start strike-off proceedings.
What Information Does a Confirmation Statement Cover?
When you submit a confirmation statement, you’re confirming or updating the following:
- Directors and People with Significant Control (PSCs): Make sure all names, dates of birth, and control details are accurate.
- Registered Office Address: Must always be a valid UK address.
- SIC Codes: These codes describe your CIC’s activities. If your services evolve (for example, you expand into education or health), update your SIC codes.
- Share Capital & Shareholders: For CICs limited by shares, details of share capital and ownership must be confirmed.
- Lawful Activities Declaration: Since March 2024, every company must confirm their intended future activities are lawful.
This isn’t just bureaucracy — many funders and partners check these records when assessing your CIC’s credibility.
How to File a Confirmation Statement with Companies House
Online Filing
The easiest way is online through the Companies House service (using your authentication code). It’s fast, usually confirmed within 24 hours, and costs £34.
Paper Filing (Form CS01)
You can also file using a paper form, but it costs £62 and takes longer. Most CICs choose online filing unless there’s a specific reason to use paper.
Fees and Costs Explained
The fee is tied to a “payment period” — a 12-month window. You only pay once in that period, even if you submit multiple confirmation statements.
Common Mistakes CIC Directors Make with Confirmation Statement Filing
Despite its simplicity, directors still stumble. Some of the most common mistakes include:
- Using the wrong SIC code, which can misrepresent what your CIC does.
- Forgetting to update directors who have resigned or joined.
- Ignoring the filing because “nothing has changed.”
- Relying solely on Companies House email reminders, which can get lost or overlooked.
Why Relying on Reminders Alone Can Be Risky
Companies House does send reminders, but the legal duty rests with the directors. If the reminder email lands in spam or goes to the wrong address, you’re still responsible.
FAQs About Confirmation Statement Filing for CICs
Do I need to file if nothing has changed?
Yes — even if everything’s the same, you must confirm it.
Can my accountant file on my behalf?
Yes. Many CIC directors delegate this to their accountants to make sure deadlines aren’t missed.
What happens if I miss the deadline?
Your CIC may be flagged as “overdue,” and Companies House can eventually strike it off.
Is the confirmation statement different from the CIC34 report?
Yes. The CIC34 is the annual community interest report, while the confirmation statement is about your company’s legal details. Both are mandatory.
Do I need to update my SIC code if our activities evolve?
Yes. Your SIC code should always reflect your CIC’s main activities.
Why Use a Specialist Accountant for CIC Confirmation Statement Filing?
While filing a confirmation statement looks straightforward, the devil is in the detail. Using an accountant who understands CICs ensures that every part is correct and filed on time.
Benefits of Using Experts Like KG Accountants
- Never Miss a Filing: We monitor deadlines and handle submissions.
- Spot Compliance Issues Early: We check your records and highlight risks before they snowball.
- Save Time: Free your directors to focus on projects, not paperwork.
- CIC-Specific Knowledge: With over 100 years of combined experience, we know the quirks of CIC compliance inside out.
How We Can Help!
At KG Accountants, we specialise in Community Interest Companies across the UK. From confirmation statements to full annual accounts and CIC34 reporting, we take the stress out of compliance so you can focus on your community mission.
Call us today on 0207 078 7477 or complete our enquiry form to book your FREE initial consultation.
Categories: Community Interest Companies, Confirmation Statement, Confirmation statement (CS01)
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