Annual duties

Arrange for the company accounts to be prepared and (if required) audited

The form of a company’s accounts will depend on whether it is small, medium or large. Most small companies are exempt from having an audit under company law.

See http://www.companieshouse.gov.uk/about/gbhtml/gp2.shtml for more information on company accounting and auditing requirements.

Ensure that a directors’ report is prepared and agreed by the governing body

The report must be signed on the governing body’s behalf by a director or the company secretary.

Responsibility for the availability of the company accounts and auditor’s report

Members, debenture holders and any other person entitled to receive notice of general meetings must have access to the accounts and auditor’s report (if required) free of charge.

Hold the annual general meeting (AGM) in accordance with the governing document

It the articles require an AGM to be held, it is usual for this to take place within nine months of the company’s accounting reference date (financial year end) so that accounts, after being signed by the auditor (if required) and following approval by the governing body, can be presented to members.

Send annual return to Companies House

This will be sent annually or within 28 days of the anniversary of the company’s incorporation or of the anniversary of the made-up date of the last annual return. The fee payable is £15 if it submitted electronically and £40 if it is on paper.