There are specific rules that restrict changing a company’s year end date, also known as the ‘accounting reference date’. The year end date is initially based on the date of a company’s incorporation, however under certain conditions, it is possible to adjust the accounting year end.

You can generally change the year end for the current financial year or the one immediately preceding it. Altering the year end will also adjust the deadline for filing accounts, except during a new company’s first financial year.

You can shorten the year end date an unlimited number of times, but you can only extend it once every five years, with a maximum extension of 18 months. Extensions may occur more frequently under specific circumstances, such as if the company is in administration.

To request a change to an accounting reference date, you can use the Companies House online service or submit the Change of Accounting Reference Date (AA01) form via post. Please note that changes cannot be made for periods where accounts are overdue.

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Internet link: GOV.UK