As we enter 2026, one of the biggest shifts in UK company law is approaching: the full implementation of restrictions on third-party filings under the Economic Crime and Corporate Transparency Act...
As we enter 2026, one of the biggest shifts in UK company law is approaching: the full implementation of restrictions on third-party filings under the Economic Crime and Corporate Transparency Act 2023 (ECCTA). From spring 2026 (exact date to be confirmed by Companies House, expected March to May), the rules for who can submit documents to Companies House on behalf of a company will change significantly.
This is part of a broader push to enhance corporate transparency, reduce fraud, and ensure only verified or authorised individuals handle sensitive filings.
The Key Change: Third-Party Filings Become ACSP-Only
Currently, accountants, formation agents, solicitors and other professionals can file documents on behalf of clients without special authorisation. From spring 2026:
- Only registered Authorised Corporate Service Providers (ACSPs), or their employees, will be able to submit any filings on behalf of another company or individual.
- Non-registered third parties will have their submissions rejected.
This affects confirmation statements (CS01), annual accounts, changes to directors, registered office, shares, PSCs and SIC codes, incorporations, and most other routine filings.
What Has Not Changed Yet
- Company officers can still file themselves. Verified directors with a personal code can continue submitting filings directly for their own company via WebFiling or software, with no ACSP needed.
- Identity verification for directors and PSCs is already mandatory, since November 2025 for new appointments, with a transition period for existing directors until late 2026.
Why This Matters for Your Business
If you rely on an accountant, agent or solicitor to handle Companies House filings, check whether they are registered as an ACSP (there is a public list on GOV.UK). If not, they will lose the ability to file on your behalf from spring 2026, and you will need to either file yourself or switch to a registered ACSP. For non-UK resident directors or busy owners, outsourcing to a registered ACSP offers convenience, expert review and peace of mind.
How to Prepare
- Verify your directors and PSCs if not already done, direct via GOV.UK One Login or through an ACSP.
- Ask your current provider about their ACSP status.
- Consider a specialist remote ACSP for seamless digital handling.
At Fundsure, we are fully registered (ACSP number AP003554) and ready to support you with filings, verifications and formations, all 100% remote. If you are unsure how these changes affect you, contact us for a no-obligation chat.