# Accounting software for UK limited companies

Canonical: https://taxmo.co.uk/limited-company-accounting-software
Last updated: 2026-04-25

Incorporating changes the bookkeeping from a summary into a set of books. You need a balance sheet, not just a profit figure, and your deadlines stop being everyone else's deadlines.

## Your dates are your own

Company deadlines run from your accounting reference date, not from 5 April. Corporation Tax is payable nine months and one day after the period ends, while the return is not due for twelve months. That gap, with payment first, catches out most first-time directors.

## Real books, not a summary

Companies use accruals accounting and need a balance sheet.

- Double-entry journals and a chart of accounts on standard UK nominal ranges
- A trial balance that proves the books balance before anything is filed
- A general ledger with a running balance per account
- A year-end close that moves the result to retained earnings

## The director's own position

Salary and dividends are taxed differently and the balance between them affects both the company and you personally. The dividend allowance has been reduced repeatedly, so a split that worked a few years ago may not now. This is worth an accountant's view on your actual numbers.

## Common questions

### Does Taxmo file my accounts at Companies House?

No. It keeps the books and produces the trial balance and reports your accountant works from. Accounts production and Companies House filing are separate, and we say so rather than implying otherwise.

### When is Corporation Tax due?

Payment is due nine months and one day after the end of your accounting period. The CT600 return is due twelve months after. Payment first, return second, which is the opposite of what most people assume.

### Do I still file a Self Assessment as a director?

Often yes, depending on how you are paid and your other income. Being a director does not automatically require one, but taking dividends usually does. Check your own position on GOV.UK.

## Related pages

- [Bookkeeping software that produces real books](https://taxmo.co.uk/bookkeeping-software-uk)
- [Accounting software for UK contractors](https://taxmo.co.uk/contractor-accounting-software)
- [VAT return software for UK businesses](https://taxmo.co.uk/vat-return-software)

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This page explains how UK rules work rather than quoting thresholds, rates or allowances, which are indexed or reset at fiscal events. Check current amounts on GOV.UK.