Covid-19 developments are having a significant impact on the economy and various businesses are having to adapt to new working styles to accommodate the need to work from home. HMRC and Companies House have implemented a number of key changes that you should be aware of if you need to file any information, including your accounts or any stock transfer forms, in the upcoming weeks.
Companies House Filings
Companies House has suspended all same day services and is encouraging the use of online filing rather than paper filing where possible. Your accounts, confirmation statements and various changes to your company (including resignation of directors and changing your company name) can all be filed online. Paper forms are still being processed but there are delays in these forms being processed and any forms must be posted as all Companies House offices are now closed to the public.
Companies House - Filing your Accounts
You can apply online via Companies House for an automatic and immediate three month extension to file your accounts if your company has been affected by Covid-19. To apply for the extension, you will need the company number, an email address and information about your extension reasons. You can also upload any documents in support of your application. If you do not apply for an extension and your accounts are filed late then automatic penalties will be imposed.
HMRC
HMRC will no longer be physically stamping documents. If you have recently sent a stock transfer form (or other instrument) to HMRC for stamping then you should resubmit the document electronically as set out below, otherwise your instruments will not be assessed or returned until the temporary Covid-19 measures end.
If you need to send a stock transfer form (or other instrument) for stamping, then you should send the signed and dated application by email to stampdutymailbox@hmrc.gov.uk together with a description of the transaction and any supporting documents. Please note that HMRC has confirmed it will accept the use of e-signatures at this time. You should pay the stamp duty in advance of sending any applications by electronic means to HMRC Birmingham Stamp Office (sort code: 08 32 10, account number: 12001098) including a reference which should be your name and the amount of stamp duty payable (no spaces - for example: Smith/240.00); please note that any cheques sent will not be banked until the current Covid-19 restrictions end.
HMRC are not acknowledging receipt of each individual notification. You will either receive an email requesting further information or, where HMRC are satisfied with the application, you will receive a letter via email confirming the transaction and receipt of payment of the stamp duty. You should allow 20 working days for HMRC to deal with your form.
Originally published 02 July, 2020
The content of this article is intended to provide a general guide to the subject matter. Specialist advice should be sought about your specific circumstances.
