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Insolvency Guide UK

Guidance for directors under pressure

Important: This guidance relates to company insolvency in England and Wales.

What is the balance sheet test for insolvency?

How the balance sheet test works for UK companies.

Understanding insolvencyLast reviewed: 2026-03-10

When this applies

This applies where directors are reviewing whether the company’s liabilities may be greater than its assets, including contingent and future liabilities.

What directors should do now

  • Review current assets and liabilities carefully
  • Include tax, creditor, loan, and contingent exposure
  • Avoid relying on optimism rather than evidence
  • Seek advice if liabilities may exceed assets

Risks if ignored

A company may already be insolvent on a balance sheet basis even if it is still trading. Ignoring this can lead to poor decision-making and greater risk for directors.

Related guidance

Short answer

In most cases, this situation means the company is under financial pressure and may already be insolvent or at risk of becoming insolvent. Early action can preserve options, but delay reduces the likelihood of recovery and increases risk to directors.

Plain-English explanation

This issue usually arises when a company cannot meet its financial obligations as they fall due, or its liabilities outweigh its assets. It may involve creditor pressure, HMRC arrears, or legal enforcement such as statutory demands or court action.

Some businesses can stabilise through restructuring, negotiation, or formal processes. Others will need to enter an insolvency procedure to bring the situation under control.

The key is understanding how serious the position is and acting before options narrow.

Why this matters for directors

When financial pressure reaches this stage, directors must prioritise the interests of creditors.

Risks of inaction include:

  • personal liability for wrongful trading
  • escalation of legal action
  • loss of control over the process
  • reduced recovery or restructuring options

Taking early advice and documenting decisions helps protect directors and improves outcomes.

What to check now

Directors should quickly review:

  • current cash flow and ability to meet upcoming payments
  • total creditor exposure, including HMRC
  • any legal notices (statutory demands, CCJs, petitions)
  • key deadlines or enforcement risks
  • viability of the underlying business

This determines whether recovery is realistic or formal action is needed.

What usually happens next

Most situations follow one of three paths:

  1. Informal resolution
    Payment plans, restructuring, or cost reductions stabilise the business.

  2. Formal insolvency process
    Administration, CVA, or liquidation is used to manage the situation.

  3. Escalation
    Creditors take legal action, reducing director control and increasing urgency.

The earlier action is taken, the more options remain available.

Related guidance

See also: