Should you file dormant accounts yourself or use an online filing service? While both approaches are legally valid, the decision affects speed, accuracy, and compliance risk. This guide compares DIY dormant filing vs online services so directors can make an informed, low-risk choice.
Quick answer: DIY filing may save money if you understand Companies House requirements, but online filing services reduce compliance risk, save time, lower the likelihood of rejected submissions and fines.
Method | Speed | Compliance Risk | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
DIY Filing | Moderate | Higher if inexperienced | Directors confident with AA02 and deadlines |
Online Filing Service | Fast | Lower | Directors seeking efficiency and reassurance |
Directors can file dormant accounts themselves directly with Companies House by completing form AA02 and submitting before the deadline.
Suitable for directors familiar with filing rules
Misunderstanding dormant qualification rules
Incorrect accounting reference dates
Late submission penalties
Rejected filings due to minor technical errors
Important: Even small mistakes on dormant accounts can lead to rejection and delay. If deadlines are missed, penalties apply automatically.
If you're unsure whether your company qualifies, review What Are Dormant Accounts? before filing.
Online filing services streamline the process with guided forms and built-in checks before submission.
Automated validation reduces errors
Structured step-by-step process
Email confirmation of submission
Deadline reminders
Faster processing
Service fee
Accuracy still depends on correct information being provided
Experience insight: Many directors attempt DIY filing to save money, but only realise errors after rejection notices from Companies House. Using structured online systems significantly reduces these avoidable compliance risks.
DIY filing may appear cheaper, but directors should factor in:
Time spent preparing and reviewing submissions
The risk of late filing penalties
The stress of correcting rejected accounts
For a full breakdown of financial penalties and statutory deadlines, see Dormant Company Deadlines & Penalties.
Important: Late filing penalties increase automatically and double if accounts are filed late two years in a row.
You have filed dormant accounts before
Your company has had zero transactions
You understand accounting reference dates
You actively monitor Companies House deadlines
You want reduced compliance risk
You value speed and confirmation of acceptance
You prefer structured guidance
You want reassurance before deadlines
If you want to understand dormant filing in more depth, explore our detailed guides:
