How to check if a company is still trading
To check if a UK company is still trading, look at its “company status” on the register (Active, Dissolved, Liquidation, etc.), then check the dates of its most recent accounts and confirmation statement. A company that is Active and has filed on time is almost certainly still operating; overdue filings or an insolvency status are warning signs.
The signals to read, in order
Start with company status. “Active” means it is on the register and has not been dissolved or struck off — though note that “active” does not by itself prove the business is trading (a dormant company is also active). Then look at the last accounts and last confirmation statement dates: recent, on-time filings indicate an operating business.
Finally, scan for insolvency or proposal-to-strike-off markers. A status of “Liquidation”, “Administration” or “Active proposal to strike off” means the company is in difficulty or being closed.
Where Company Shark helps
Each company page shows the status, incorporation date, latest filing dates and SIC codes in one place, and our Trading Signals surface recent changes — new filings, accounts overdue, or insolvency events — so you can judge at a glance whether a business is live.
Frequently asked
Does “Active” mean a company is trading?
Not necessarily. “Active” means the company is registered and not dissolved. A dormant (non-trading) company is also shown as active, so check its accounts and activity too.
What does “Active proposal to strike off” mean?
It means Companies House has begun the process of removing the company from the register — usually because filings are overdue. The company may be dissolved within a couple of months unless the action is suspended.
How current is the data?
Company Shark reads the live Companies House register, so statuses and filing dates reflect the official record.
Can a dissolved company still owe me money?
Once dissolved, a company ceases to exist and its assets pass to the Crown. Recovering a debt usually means applying to restore the company — specialist advice is recommended.
Related guides
- Company status explained (Active, Dissolved & more)
- Company insolvency explained
- What is a confirmation statement?
Put this into practice
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