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Companies and directors

Director responsibilities and company records

The core legal and record-keeping responsibilities of a UK company director.

Last reviewed: 27 July 2026Review due: 6 April 2027

Overview

Directors are responsible for the company even when an accountant prepares filings. They must act in the company’s interests, keep adequate accounting and company records, protect company assets, consider creditors when the company is in difficulty and ensure required information is sent to Companies House and HMRC.

Who this applies to

Directors of private limited companies, including non-UK resident directors.

Key points

  • Maintain records that explain transactions and show the company’s financial position.
  • Keep personal and company funds separate.
  • Read official correspondence sent to the registered office and registered email.
  • Do not assume delegation to staff or an accountant removes director responsibility.

Important dates and deadlines

Changes to officers, registered office and certain company details must be reported promptly. Annual accounts and a confirmation statement must be filed by their individual due dates.

Practical checklist

  1. Keep invoices, bank statements and contracts.
  2. Record director decisions and share changes.
  3. Monitor solvency and cash flow.
  4. Review Companies House information regularly.
  5. Tell the accountant promptly about unusual or connected-party transactions.

Frequently asked questions

How long should company accounting records be kept?

Companies generally need to retain appropriate accounting and tax records for the required statutory period; the exact period can depend on the type of record and circumstances.

Can an overseas resident be a UK company director?

Usually yes, but the company still needs a UK registered office and the director must meet UK legal and tax obligations.

How Accountants4All can help

Support matched to your circumstances

Accountants4All maintains a structured compliance timetable and can help directors keep the records needed for accounts, tax and Companies House filings.

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Official sources and further reading

Tax and legal disclaimer

This page is general guidance and does not create an adviser/client relationship. Tax rules and official guidance can change. Use the official sources above and obtain advice based on your circumstances.

Read the full tax disclaimer