UK Company Annual Review + Dormant Filing: DIY for ~£100 and Save Half

Taobao Quote vs. DIY

UK company annual review + dormant accounts filing — Taobao agents charge ¥2000.

Here's what it actually costs to do it yourself:

Item	Cost
1st Formations – Confirmation Statement filing	€76
Registered address renewal	€26
TinyTax – semi-assisted tax filing	€20
Total	€122 (~¥1000)

That's ¥1000 saved — proof that knowing where to look is half the battle.

Step-by-Step

1. Confirmation Statement (Annual Review): Filed through 1st Formations — €76
2. Registered address renewal: If you're using a registered agent address, renew it — €26
3. Dormant Accounts filing: Submitted semi-assisted through TinyTax — €20

Tips

• The annual review and tax filing are two separate requirements — both need to be completed on time
• If your company has no actual business activity, you can file as dormant (Dormant Accounts)
• 1st Formations is a well-established service with a smooth process
• Doing it yourself isn't complicated — the main thing is knowing where to go

FAQ

What is a UK Dormant Accounts filing?

When a company has had no significant financial transactions during an accounting period, it can file as dormant with both Companies House and HMRC. The process is much simpler than a standard tax return. That said, if your company has had any real transactions, dormant status doesn't apply.

Are the annual review and tax filing the same thing?

No. The Confirmation Statement (annual review) is filed with Companies House to confirm your company's details. The tax filing (CT600 or Dormant Accounts) is submitted to HMRC. They're separate obligations with separate deadlines — you need to do both.

How much does it cost to DIY the annual review + dormant filing?

Around €122 (¥1000): 1st Formations Confirmation Statement filing €76 + registered address renewal €26 + TinyTax semi-assisted filing €20. Taobao agents charge ¥2000 for the same thing.

UK Company Series for Independent Developers

A complete, first-hand walkthrough from incorporation to annual compliance — every post is based on real experience:

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• Annual Review for £148: DIY vs. Agent — A Side-by-Side Comparison
• Annual Review Timeline: Full £228 Walkthrough + Where to Save

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Author: Jason Zhu | Original post

⚠️ Disclaimer: This post is a personal account of my own experience and is intended for informational purposes only. It does not constitute tax, legal, or financial advice. For anything tax-related, refer to official HMRC and Companies House guidance, and consult a licensed accountant where appropriate.