The accounting reference date for a company refers to the period to which the accounts are drawn up.  It is the date of the (annual) balance sheet included in the accounts which cover the period up until the accounting reference date. The accounting period (period covered by profit and loss accounts) is the interval between two successive accounting reference dates.

If no arrangements are made, the default reference date will be the end of the month of incorporation.  This first period is one year after this date.  For example, a company incorporated on 12 March will have a default accounting reference date of 31 March.

If this date does not suite the needs of the company, you can send an AA01 form to Companies House to amend it, although the accounting period cannot be shorter than 6 months or longer than 18 months.  You should discuss this with your accountant as the choice of date can affect the date on which your tax payments are due and so affect the cash flow of the company.

To start your company formation and appoint Wisteria Ltd as your Chartered Accountants, tax & business advisers, please go to: https://www.wisteriaformations.co.uk/uk_company_registration.

If you need any help please ask our company formation support team for further advice on 0844 893 0808.