Due to longer response times to appeals, Companies House has updated the penalty guidance to add reassurance that they will suspend all recovery action until an appeal has been considered. Those appealing will receive a full reply in due course and do not need to contact Companies House.

Covid-19 restrictions means that Companies House staff are primarily working remotely. The guidance states: ‘We have reduced numbers in our offices to maintain social distancing - so we’re not able to take credit card payments over the telephone.’

It is possible to make some penalty payments online. If you have difficulty paying the penalty, Companies House normally accepts payment over a short period by monthly instalments. Anyone who wants to pay over time needs to contact Companies House to request payment by instalments, explaining why they cannot pay the penalty immediately.