Important changes are coming for UK companies filing Corporation Tax returns and annual accounts. From 1 April 2026, the online filing service for companies is closing. This post discusses the potential impact on your business.
Why the online filing service for companies is closing
HMRC is closing the current service because in their opinion it fails to meet modern digital standards. It was originally intended to support small, unrepresented businesses with more straight-forward tax needs.
However, newer digital solutions in the market place offer more advanced features. This change is also supported by Companies House. They say it aligns with the Economic Crime and Corporate Transparency Act. Additionally, it supports new processes like Identity Verification. HMRC have recently announced a shift in the implementation date of Making Tax Digital so this closure reinforces the necessity of using a third party software.
What Should You Do Before the Service Closes?
Before the deadline, you should act to avoid losing important records. HMRC recommends downloading at least the last three years of your company's filed tax returns by 31 March 2026. After this date, you'll be unable to access data from previous submissions using the free service.
You might need to access these records at a later date if:
You can see how to save previous submissions here. Doing this now will prevent any issues at a later date.
What if I need to amend a tax return after 31 March 2026?
As the online filing service for companies is closing, you can’t make changes using the old system. However, you do still have three alternatives:
However, to amend company accounts filed with Companies House, you must use software or submit paper accounts.
Filing tax returns after the free service ends
After 31 March 2026, all Corporation Tax returns must be filed using commercial software. This software must allow you to file a Corporation Tax return and tax computation. Additionally, your company accounts must be tagged in a specific format known as iXBRL.
However, charities, community amateur sports clubs, and flat management companies may qualify for a filing exemption if they are dormant.
Although filing annual accounts with Companies House is still necessary. Fortunately, most software providers offer this option too. While web and paper filing remain possible for now, Companies House has stated that in the future, only third-party software will be accepted
Summary
The closure of online filing service for companies marks a major change. If you're prepare now this will avoid a headache later on. You should explore your software options and/or engage an accountant who is IT savvy. This will ensure you're ready for the transition.
For more useful information, check out our Ebooks here.
And if you'd like to know how we can help you with all of this, or with anything else, feel free to give us a call on 01202 048696 or email us at [email protected].
Alternatively, please feel free to complete our Business Questionnaire here.