A company can be struck off the register at Companies House using a quick and simple procedure after which it is deemed to be dissolved.
This procedure can be used where a company is no longer serving a useful purpose. For example:
The company is now a shell following transfer of its business and assets following an acquisition or group reorganisation.
The business has ceased trading and been wound up.
The company is simply no longer required.
Here are our 3 steps to follow when striking-off a company:
Step 1: The application
The company must complete Form DS01 – striking-off application- and file it with the registrar with the fee of £8.00. The application process is here.
Note: The company must not have traded or undertaken any transactions during the three months prior to the application being made.
Step 2: Notifying interested parties
Within seven days of the day on which the application is made a copy of it is given to every person who on the date of the application is a:
shareholder;
director;
creditor; or
employee.
Step 3: Removal from the Register
Companies House will publish a notice to invite any objections to the striking-off.
Assuming no objections are received the company will be struck from the register two months after the date of publication of the striking-off notice.
Once an application has been registered the company will still need to make all routine filings until the company is dissolved (including its accounts if due).
Note: there are a number of situations in which a striking-off application must not be made, for example, if certain activities have been conducted in the preceding three month period or if other dissolution proceedings are underway. We can advise you if any of these situations apply.