Winding-up petition help
Tell us the stage reached
Explain whether the company has received a warning letter, statutory demand, petition or winding-up order. These are different stages. Keep the original documents and note the court, case number, service date, hearing date and any advertisement information.
If there is a deadline, call rather than relying only on a website message. A discussion with an adviser does not itself suspend legal proceedings.
Options depend on the debt and the company
The response may involve payment, a negotiated arrangement, a legal challenge to a genuinely disputed debt or consideration of a formal insolvency route. What is appropriate depends on available funds, viability and the legal position.
Do not assume that agreement with the petitioning creditor ends every risk. Other creditors, costs and court requirements can remain relevant.
Banking and trading concerns
A petition can create serious banking and transaction issues. Seek advice before making payments or dealing with assets if a petition has been presented. Publication may also affect customers, suppliers and funding.
Provide an immediate cash position, creditor list and details of ongoing work. If staff wages or essential services are at risk, make that clear at the start of the conversation.
Documents that help an urgent review
- The petition or other formal notice in full.
- Correspondence about the debt and any dispute.
- Current funds and proposed funding sources.
- Recent accounts and a short cash forecast.
- Details of other creditors and existing arrangements.
On this page
Need help now?
If a deadline is approaching, tell us the date when you call.
Common questions
There may be options, but timing, the debt and court procedure matter. No adviser can promise a particular outcome without reviewing the case.
Not necessarily. Costs, other creditors and procedural steps need consideration. Obtain advice before assuming proceedings are concluded.
Keep the evidence and obtain urgent legal advice on the dispute and procedural deadlines. Do not ignore the petition.
Further reading: official GOV.UK guidance. General information; procedures and advice depend on your circumstances and jurisdiction.