Sometimes a company is no longer required. You can begin the dissolution process using Inform Direct.
Note: It is now possible to start the Striking Off process directly at Companies House i.e. to effectively file the DS01 electronically. For reasons which have never been explained to us (or any other software filer) Companies House have not allowed software filers to submit their DS01 forms electronically so the below process explains how to create the paper form DS01 and accompanying minutes. Overview of Dissolved Companies
The actual process differs slightly depending on the number of directors:
- How do I Dissolve a Company with up to Two Directors
- How do I Dissolve a Company with Three or more Directors
You will be able to use either of the above processes to create form DS01 provided that in the last 3 months the company must not have:
- Traded (or otherwise carried on in business)
- Sold any property or rights owned by the business which is previously sold while trading, For example, a clothes shop could not in those 3 months sell remaining clothes themselves, but it could sell the mannequins, tills, shelving and its delivery vehicle.
- Changed its name
- Engaged in any activities other those required to dissolve the company, conclude its affairs or comply with a legal requirement. This allows a company to have sought (and paid) for professional advice in relation to dissolving the company.
Inform Direct will create and populate the necessary paperwork, which you should then print and send to Companies House together with a cheque for the Companies House fee to start the process striking off process.
Where does the director sign the DS01?
The DS01 form does not have a traditional handwritten signature box. You do not need a wet (ink) signature. Simply type or print the director's name in the Authentication field before printing and posting to Companies House.
Do I still need to file a confirmation statement if the company is being struck off?
If a DS01 (strike-off application) has been accepted and is in progress at Companies House, you are generally not required to file a confirmation statement (CS01) while the strike-off is pending. Companies House will typically not expect routine filings once a strike-off is underway.
However, please note:
- If the strike-off is objected to or withdrawn, the company's normal filing obligations — including the confirmation statement — will resume.
- If you are approaching the CS01 due date and the strike-off has not yet been confirmed, it is worth checking with Companies House directly to confirm whether the filing is still expected.
Inform Direct will not prevent you from filing a CS01 even if a strike-off is in progress, if you wish to do so.
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