Guide · UK limited companies · MicroBiz365
UK filing reminders: common mistakes and when the tool is not enough
MicroBiz365’s filing reminders are built to be simple — but simple tools go wrong when expectations drift. Here is how people trip up, and where you should stop relying on a reminder and get professional help.
· MicroBiz365 · About 5 min read
General information only — not legal, tax, or accounting advice.
Common mistakes
1. Picking the wrong company
Name search can return similar titles. If you subscribe for the wrong number, you will get correct reminders for the wrong business. Always match company number and registered office to the register before you subscribe.
2. Never confirming the email
Until you click the confirmation link, no reminders are sent. If you assumed you were “done” after typing your address, you are not protected yet.
3. Treating the register as instant truth
Companies House data updates when filings are processed. A very recent change may not show immediately. If dates look wrong, cross-check on GOV.UK or with your adviser before you panic — or before you ignore a real deadline.
4. Expecting HMRC to connect automatically
The tool does not log into HMRC. Optional tax dates are whatever you type in. If you leave them blank, you will only get Companies House-style nudges. If you type the wrong date, the reminder will be wrong too.
5. Assuming a dormant company has no tax return
Companies House dormant accounts and HMRC Corporation Tax are different things. Until HMRC has agreed your company is dormant for Corporation Tax (or another rule applies), you may still need to file a Company Tax Return — and late filing can mean fines. Check GOV.UK: dormant for Corporation Tax and use the tool’s optional dates for any return or payment deadline HMRC gives you.
6. Using a dead inbox
An address you never open defeats the point. Use the inbox you actually read on Monday mornings.
When the tool is not enough
Reminders are a calendar discipline, not a substitute for judgement. Get an accountant or adviser involved when, for example:
- You have group structures, overseas subsidiaries, or unusual accounting periods.
- You are insolvent, in a time-to-pay arrangement, or facing an enquiry — dates and obligations multiply.
- You are unsure which tax regime applies (VAT schemes, CIS, R&D claims, etc.).
- You need filings prepared — the tool does not draft accounts, confirmation statements, or tax returns.
Used honestly, the tool stays in its lane: show public due dates, optionally repeat dates you supply, and email you before they arrive.