UK company director responsibilities
What you're legally responsible for as the director of a UK company.
Who this is for: Anyone who is, or is thinking of becoming, a director of a UK limited company.
What it explains: Your core duties, and what to keep, file and report.
Directors' legal duties
Under the Companies Act 2006: act within your powers, promote the company's success, exercise independent judgement, use reasonable care and skill, avoid conflicts of interest, don't accept benefits from third parties, and declare interests.
Keep records
Maintain accurate accounting records and company records. Since November 2025, register changes are filed directly with Companies House.
File on time
Confirmation statement, annual accounts and the Company Tax Return — each by its deadline. Late filing brings automatic penalties.
Report changes
Tell Companies House about appointing/resigning directors, a change of registered office, and people with significant control (PSCs) — usually within 14 days.
Take money out correctly
Get money out of the company through the right channels: salary, dividends from profit, or a director's loan — properly documented.
Registered office & email
Keep a valid registered office address and registered email address to receive official mail.
Verify your identity
From November 2026, every director must verify their identity with Companies House — this can be done remotely.
Official sources to check
- GOV.UK — Running a limited company (director responsibilities) ↗
- Companies House ↗
- GOV.UK — Identity verification ↗
When to speak to a professional
If you're unsure of your duties, or want someone to handle compliance for you. Fileminder is an AAT-regulated, ACSP-authorised firm running compliance for Arab directors, remotely.
Related: Filing deadlines
Stay in the loop
A monthly update — key deadlines, figures and new free resources.
General guidance only, not legal, tax or accounting advice. The rules are set by the official bodies and can change, so always check the official sources. Last reviewed: June 2026.