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How do you close an insolvent company?

The main steps in closing an insolvent company properly.

Distress questionsLast reviewed: 2026-03-10

Short answer

Add a 40-60 word direct answer to: How do you close an insolvent company?

Plain-English explanation

Explain the topic clearly for UK company directors. Keep the tone calm, neutral, and practical.

Why this matters for directors

Explain why this issue matters now, including any risk to:

  • continued trading
  • creditor relationships
  • director duties
  • timing of decisions

What to check now

Use a short checklist such as:

  • current cash position
  • unpaid creditors
  • HMRC exposure
  • legal notices received
  • immediate deadlines

What usually happens next

Explain the likely next steps or branches:

  • informal pressure
  • formal insolvency option
  • professional advice usually needed
  • when urgency increases

Related guides

  • /guides/closing-an-insolvent-company
  • /guides/creditors-voluntary-liquidation
  • /guides/company-strike-off-vs-liquidation

Assess your situation

If you are unsure how this applies to your company, start the assessment to understand your current position.