The Economic Crime and Corporate Transparency Act has introduced significant changes for how small businesses report their financial information in the UK. While opinions on these requirements differ, the government aims to balance transparency with minimizing business burdens while fighting fraudulent activities. As these regulations take effect, it’s crucial for small business clients to stay informed about evolving requirements and ensure compliance with the new rules to avoid potential legal consequences.
Understanding the Economic Crime and Corporate Transparency Act:
The Economic Crime and Corporate Transparency Act, recently passed, enforces stricter rules for how companies report their financial information to Companies House. The key changes include:
- Profit and Loss Reporting: Small companies, which also include micro-entities, will now have to file a profit and loss account.
- Director’s Report: Small companies will also need to file a director’s report. This will make their turnover publicly available.
- Abridged Accounts Removed: The Act eliminates the option for companies to prepare abridged accounts, which are shorter and simplified financial statements.
Who’s Affected?
To see how these rules impact you, it’s essential to understand whether your business qualifies as a small company or a micro-entity. According to the Act:
- Small Company: This refers to a company that meets at least two of the following criteria: a turnover of £10.2 million or less, a balance sheet of £5.1 million or less, or 50 employees or fewer.
- Micro-Entity: Micro-entities meet two of the following criteria: a turnover of £632,000 or less, a balance sheet of £316,000 or less, or 10 employees or fewer.
While the Act is now law, the timeline for implementing these new rules is yet to be determined. Companies House will provide further details once they finalize the secondary legislation, including the specific requirements for the profit and loss account.
Additional Requirements for Directors:
In addition to the profit and loss reporting, directors of companies using audit exemption rules (like dormant companies) will need to provide additional information. This includes a statement confirming their eligibility for the exemption. These changes aim to increase transparency and reduce financial misconduct.
Mixed Opinions on the Requirements:
Reactions to these new filing requirements vary. Some believe it’s a necessary step, given the limited liability protection enjoyed by companies. Others are concerned about sensitive business data becoming publicly accessible. Some have even suggested a return to a subscription-based Companies House service to safeguard this sensitive information. To navigate these changes effectively, it’s crucial to keep clients informed about the new legal requirements.
Cracking Down on Fraud:
These requirements are part of a broader effort to strengthen the regulatory framework and combat corporate fraud. Companies House has gained new powers for increased transparency and accuracy, including identity verification for company directors, individuals with significant control, and those delivering documents to the registrar.
The government’s goal is to create a more reliable and accurate companies register while addressing the issue of inaccurate or insufficient information. By requiring more detailed financial information, they aim to reduce the risk of money laundering and other fraudulent activities, ultimately improving the reliability of available information.
