What is a company strike off?
A strike off (also called “company dissolution” or “voluntary strike off”) is a process to remove a company from the Companies House register. Once struck off, the company ceases to exist and remaining unsecured liabilities are not actively pursued, but only if you follow the rules and there are no outstanding debts. If creditors object, the strike off can be suspended or reversed.
When is strike off appropriate?
You can usually apply to strike off if, for at least 3 months, the company has:
- Ceased trading (no sales activity or trading income);
- No outstanding debts, finance agreements, or HMRC arrears;
- Not changed its name;
- Not disposed of assets outside the ordinary course (other than to settle obligations);
- No ongoing legal action or threatened winding-up petition.
If any of the above isn’t true, speak to us before you act. The wrong step can increase the risk of personal liability or director disqualification.
At a glance:
- Best for: Dormant or non-trading companies with no debts and no ongoing disputes.
- Also: It can also be used for companies with no assets or employees, but you have to send a notice to every creditor. In such cases, HMRC and Covid loan creditors will likely object.
- Timeframe: Typically 3–6 months.
- Cost: Low (Companies House fee + admin).
- Key risk: Objections from creditors or restoration if liabilities later emerge.
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Strike off vs liquidation – what’s the difference?
| Strike off (dissolution) | Creditors' voluntary liquidation (CVL) | |
|---|---|---|
| Control | Directors apply directly to Companies House | Licensed insolvency practitioner appointed as liquidator |
| Outcomes for debt | Strike off can be objected to; company can be restored if liabilities later surface | Debts dealt with under insolvency law; orderly closure |
| Director risk | Higher if liabilities exist or appear later | Lower if directors have acted properly |
| Cost | Low administrative cost | Costs usually from company assets (we’re transparent on fees) |
If there are any debts, a creditors’ voluntary liquidation (CVL) is generally the safer route. We can assess your position and, if suitable, also advise on rescue options (CVA, company administration) before liquidation.
Your director duties (and common pitfalls)
When insolvency is possible or creditors could lose out, your duties shift to protecting creditors. Common pitfalls include:
- Applying for strike off while debts remain unpaid (creditors can and HMRC and Covid loan creditors usually will object); failing to inform HMRC, employees, landlords, lenders, and other stakeholders.
Get advice early—missteps now can trigger personal claims later and the restoration of the company.
How the strike off process works
Preparation & checks
We review your financial position, confirm eligibility, and identify any issues that could lead to objections or restoration.
Housekeeping
Including:
- File outstanding accounts/returns (if required).
- Pay and submit final PAYE/VAT/CT returns. Notify employees, HMRC, banks, landlords, suppliers, clients, shareholders. Close bank accounts.
- Distribute any remaining cash/assets correctly.
Application
Directors sign and submit the strike off application to Companies House and give the required notices.
Public notice & waiting period
A notice is published in the Gazette. If there are no valid objections, Companies House will strike the company off.
Dissolution
The company is removed from the register. Books and records should be retained for a minimum of 7 years.
Important: Any undistributed property on dissolution may pass to the Crown (bona vacantia). We’ll help you avoid that outcome.
Is strike off right for you? A quick checklist
- No creditors, arrears, or disputes
- No personal guarantees linked to company debts
- No asset transfers to connected parties in the last 3 months
- All taxes up to date, and final returns prepared
- All stakeholders informed
- Records organised and retained
If you’ve ticked everything, strike off may be suitable. If not, let’s discuss whether a strike-off application could work for you or if there are safer alternatives.
Company strike off FAQs
Can creditors stop a strike off?
Yes. Any creditor (including HMRC) can object, which usually halts the process. If liabilities surface after dissolution, the company can be restored to recover debts.
What happens to employees?
Will this affect my ability to be a director again?
Not usually—unless there’s misconduct. Acting promptly and taking advice reduces risk.
What if I can’t afford liquidation?
In CVLs, fees are generally paid from
Can I start a new company afterwards?
Why McTear Williams & Wood?
- Rescue‑first mindset: We always test recovery options before recommending closure.
- Your interests first: The advice we give puts your interests first.
- Specialist insolvency expertise: Licensed insolvency practitioners with decades of SME experience.
- Clear, practical guidance: Straight answers on eligibility, risks and the fastest compliant route.
How can we help - Book a free 1-2-1
If your company is struggling with unmanageable debts, decreased cashflow or concerns about about your company’s future, we can assess your situation and provide you with tailored solutions and options.
During your free initial advice meeting, we will discover a true picture of your company’s financial situation
and offer practical and expert guidance on your next steps.
Initial meetings can be held at our office or your premises and are completely confidential.
There is no charge for this meeting – charges only apply if and when terms of engagement have been agreed.
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