How to Restore a Dissolved Company on Companies House: Step-by-Step Guide

My Company Has Been Dissolved on Companies House: How Do I Make It Active Again?

A dissolved company doesn’t mean the end of the road for your business. Whether it’s to access frozen funds, recover assets, or resume operations, restoring your company on Companies House is a process you can navigate successfully. This guide explains the steps and strategies to make your business active again.

Instances When a Company Can Be Dissolved

A company may be dissolved for various reasons, often tied to non-compliance or deliberate actions by its owners. Common scenarios include:

• Failure to File Statutory Documents:

Missing deadlines for Confirmation Statements, Statutory Accounts, or Annual Returns can lead to compulsory strike-off.

• Voluntary Dissolution:

Owners may choose to close the company when it’s no longer needed or financially viable.

• Inactivity:

Companies that remain dormant for extended periods without proper filings may be dissolved.

• Court Orders:

Legal disputes, insolvency, or other court-mandated actions can result in dissolution.

When a company is dissolved, it ceases to exist as a legal entity. This results in frozen bank accounts and the transfer of remaining assets to the Crown. However, businesses can take steps to restore their status and resume operations.

The Process of Restoring Your Company

1. Determine the Type of Restoration

There are two main methods to restore a dissolved company:

a. Administrative Restoration -

• Eligibility: This is suitable for companies struck off by Companies House for non-compliance with filing obligations.
• Deadline: You can apply within six years of dissolution.

b. Restoration by Court Order

• Eligibility: This applies when dissolution occurred voluntarily or for specific legal reasons.
• Process: It requires a formal application to the court and is typically more complex.

2. Administrative Restoration

This method is available if you were a director or shareholder of the company. Follow these steps:

1. Compete the Form RT01

2. Complete all your outstanding Statutory Accounts.

3. Complete all your outstanding Confirmation Statements

4. Pay the Application Fee:

The restoration fee is £468, payable to 'Companies House'. Additionally, you'll need to pay any outstanding filing fees or penalties associated with late submissions.

5. Obtain a Waiver Letter from Bona Vacantia:

If your company had assets, you'll need this letter. The application cost for a waiver letter from Bona Vacantia to restore a dissolved company is £64.

6. Submit Application:

Mail the completed Form RT01, outstanding documents, and a cheque for the restoration fee and any other applicable fees to:

Companies House
Crown Way
Cardiff
CF14 3UZ

If you don't have a cheque book, consider alternative payment methods as outlined in this article.

7. Await Confirmation

Companies House will review the submitted application, verify the details, and notify the applicant of the decision. A successful restoration reinstates the company on the register, allowing it to resume operations and access assets.

3. Restoration by Court Order

If administrative restoration isn't an option, you can apply for a court order. Here's what you need:

1. Court Fee: £308.
2. Registrar of Companies Fee: £300.
3. Witness Statement: Prepare a detailed witness statement.
4. Professional Services Fees: Consider hiring a professional to handle the application.
5. Duchy of Lancaster or Cornwall Charge: £175 + VAT.

Additional Fees

Be aware of other potential costs, including:

• Name Change Fees
• Late Filing Penalties
• Statutory Penalties: Especially if your accounts were filed late.

FAQs About Company Restoration

1. How Long Does It Take to Restore a Company?

Typically, the process takes 2–3 months for administrative restoration. Court order restoration may take longer depending on the legal complexities involved.

2. Can I Recover My Business Assets After Restoration?

Yes, restoring your company reinstates control over bank accounts, assets, and property previously held by the company.

3. What Happens if My Application is Rejected?

You can reapply after addressing any missing information or unresolved issues. You have a few options:

• Seek a Court Order: You can apply for a court order to reinstate your company.
• Request a Discretionary Grant: If you were a shareholder, you might be eligible to claim some money back through a discretionary grant.

For more detailed information, refer to the official guidance on restoring your dissolved company.

Don’t Delay—Act Now!

The sooner you restore your dissolved company, the quicker you can regain access to assets and resume operations.

If you have questions about reactivating your company, feel free to contact us today!