You can apply to extend your accounts deadline if you cannot send your accounts because of an event that’s outside of your control - for example, because of an unexpected illness or if a fire has destroyed company records a few days before your filing deadline. You must apply for the extension (or file your accounts) before your filing deadline, or you’ll receive a late filing penalty. You can search for your company to check your filing deadlines online - you do not need to contact us to find out when your filing deadline is. You may not be eligible if you’ve already extended your accounts deadline. The law only allows a maximum filing period of 12 months.