Before the year end

• Estimate the year’s profitA rough figure now is what makes everything below possible.
• Decide on dividendsCheck the reserves are there, and minute the decision at the time.
• Look at the director’s loan accountPlan how any overdrawn balance will be cleared.
• Time any large purchasesA machine bought the day before the year end counts for this year.
• Pay pension contributionsRelief depends on the money being paid, not merely promised.

On the last day

• Count the stock and work in progressCount it on the day, and keep the sheets.
• Reconcile every bank accountTo the last penny, at the close of the day.

Afterwards

• List who owes you and whom you oweAnd write off any debt that is plainly gone.
• Send your records to your accountantThree months after the year end is a sensible target.
• Pay corporation taxNine months and a day after the year end.
• Clear any overdrawn director’s loanOn the same date, or section 455 tax falls due.
• File accounts at Companies HouseNine months after the year end.
• File the company tax returnTwelve months after the year end.