HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC) has confirmed that its free Company Tax Return filing service will be permanently withdrawn from 31 March 2026.
Originally developed to accommodate small and straightforward businesses, the existing system is now considered outdated and no longer fit for purpose in today’s digital environment.
From that point onwards, all companies will be required to use commercial software to submit their Company Tax Returns and statutory accounts.
Time to adopt new digital tools
Modern commercial tax software offers a range of practical advantages over the legacy HMRC tool, including:
These updates are designed to improve accuracy and reduce the likelihood of missed deadlines or rejected filings.
Avoid disruption by planning early
Although the service is not set to close until March 2026, companies are advised to start the transition well in advance.
Early adoption of new software will allow sufficient time to get used to the system, test your submission process, and prevent issues close to key reporting deadlines.
There is no need to inform HMRC or Companies House when switching systems, you can begin using compatible software at any time.
Historic data access will also end
From April 2026 onwards, previously filed Company Tax Returns submitted through the free HMRC service will no longer be available online.
Companies should therefore download and safely store past filings, which should ideally cover at least the last three years, well before the closure date.
Amendments to earlier submissions after the deadline will only be possible via third-party software or by post.
If we act as your authorised agent, we can carry this out on your behalf.
Dormant companies are not exempt
Even if a company is not currently trading, it may still have ongoing filing responsibilities.
Annual accounts must continue to be submitted to Companies House, even where no Corporation Tax is due.
This applies to:
Failure to comply may result in penalties or the company being struck off the register.
With the free service approaching its end, now is the right time to review your filing process and adopt HMRC-compatible software that supports both current and future compliance requirements.
