The DS01 form is used to strike off a company from the register, though this can also be done online.

Why strike off a company?

There are plenty of reasons why a company may be struck off from the register at Companies House. For instance, the business might have a single product which no longer has a market, or the owners of the company may be retiring with no one to take over the company.

Applying to be struck off the register when ineligible to do so is an offence though, and one which could result in a fine if convicted.

A company must have re-paid all its business or trading debts from the last three months to be struck off the Companies House register. There must also have been a period of inactivity before being struck off.

This means that a company won’t be eligible to apply if, during the last quarter it has:

• traded or carried on the business
• changed the business name
• sold property that was sold whilst trading.

For instance, if a furniture company wanted to be struck off the register, it could sell the machine that was used to manufacture the furniture, but not the actual furniture that it was selling.

A company also can’t be struck off the Companies House register if insolvency proceedings or arrangements between the business and members or creditors are in place.

Read HMRC’s guide to company strike-offs for more information, or talk to one of our advisors to learn more about how our online accountants can help by using the live chat button on screen, or calling 020 3355 4047.

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