Quick Overview

A company that's been struck off and dissolved — often for failing to file accounts or a confirmation statement — can sometimes be restored to the Companies House register, allowing it to legally operate again.

Who This Guide Is For

This guide is for former directors or shareholders of a dissolved company who need to restore it, for example to deal with assets, contracts or legal matters that require the company to exist again.

What You May Need

  • The company's former registration number and details
  • A reason for restoration (such as recovering an asset or settling a legal matter)
  • Any outstanding filings (accounts, confirmation statements) brought up to date

Step-by-Step Process

  1. Confirm the restoration route. Restoration can generally be administrative (for eligible former directors/shareholders) or by court order, depending on the circumstances.
  2. Gather the required evidence and forms for the applicable route.
  3. Bring outstanding filings up to date, including any overdue accounts or confirmation statements.
  4. Submit the restoration application to Companies House (or the court, where relevant).
  5. Resume normal filing obligations once the company is restored.

Important Considerations

Time limits generally apply to restoration, so it's worth acting promptly once the need arises. Administrative restoration is usually simpler than court restoration, but not every situation qualifies for it.

This guide provides general information only and is not personalised legal advice.