Strike off objection risk checker
Striking a company off with form DS01 is only meant for a solvent or dormant company with no real debts. If the company owes money, HMRC and other creditors can object, and a strike off does not write off the debts even if it succeeds.
Check your objection risk
Indicative only. Strike off does not clear debts, and dissolved companies can be investigated.
Why a strike off with debts is a personal risk
Since 2021 the Insolvency Service can investigate the conduct of directors of dissolved companies and seek disqualification, including over the misuse of Bounce Back Loans. A company also cannot apply to be struck off while a winding-up petition is pending (Companies Act 2006, section 1005). So an attempted strike off with debts behind it is often both a waste of time and a personal risk, and a liquidation may be the proper route.
Common questions
Can HMRC object to a strike off?
Yes, and it commonly does where there are unpaid taxes. A creditor or HMRC can file an objection that suspends the strike off. Striking off does not clear company debts either. See company strike off.
What should I do if the risk is high?
If the company has real debts, a Creditors Voluntary Liquidation is usually the proper route rather than strike off, because it deals with creditors correctly and protects directors who act responsibly. Take advice before filing a DS01.
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Free, confidential and no obligation. We are an independent information service. Getting in touch does not appoint an insolvency practitioner or create a professional engagement. We review your situation and reply with what we think the right next step is. This is general information, not regulated advice.