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Costs to increase for small company compliance
HMRC's free online filing service for company tax returns and Accounts to close in 2026.
Last week HMRC announced the intention to close its free online filing service for Company Tax Returns and Accounts, requiring all companies to use third-party commercial software from 1 April 2026.
They say this is due to changes in standards and the market since its introduction in 2011.
The online service was a one-stop shop to file the accounts to Companies House and the tax return to HMRC at the same time, which was particularly aimed at small companies that were not using external accountancy services. As a result of its withdrawal, these companies will now need to either select an alternative software through which to file or use an accountant to do so on their behalf.
HMRC highlights that anyone who previously used the service should download and save their previous 3 years of filed returns before 31 March 2026, to ensure the company’s records are complete after the service closes.
Read more about the announcement of the closure of the free online service here.
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THE AUTHOR
Clair Dart
Partner
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