Navigating the Closure of HMRC Corporation Tax filing service closure 2026: What UK Businesses Need to Know

Leah Solmaz
May 7
2 min read

Understanding the Change

HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) has announced that its free online service for filing Company Tax Returns and accounts will cease operations on 31 March 2026. This service has been a staple for many small businesses, allowing simultaneous submissions to both HMRC and Companies House. Post-closure, businesses will need to adopt commercial software solutions to fulfill their filing obligations.

Reasons Behind the Closure

The decision stems from the service's inability to meet modern digital standards and recent changes in UK company law. Since its inception in 2011, the landscape of digital tax filing has evolved, with numerous commercial software providers now offering enhanced features, such as improved validation and integrated tax support.

Implications for Businesses From HMRC Corporation Tax filing service closure 2026

HMRC Corporation Tax filing service closure 2026, essentially means that businesses currently relying on HMRC's free service must transition to commercial software by April 2026. This shift may introduce additional costs, as businesses will need to purchase or subscribe to suitable software solutions. It's crucial for businesses to assess their needs and budget accordingly to ensure compliance.

Recommended Actions

Research Commercial Software: Begin exploring commercial software options that align with your business needs. HMRC provides a list of recognised software suppliers to assist in this selection. GOV.UK
Download Historical Data: Ensure you download and securely store copies of your past three years of filed returns before 31 March 2026, as access will be restricted post-closure.
Plan the Transition: Allocate time and resources to transition smoothly to the new software, including staff training and data migration.

Support for Local Businesses

Just a quick plug as a Torbay-based marketing consultant familiar with the challenges faced by small businesses, I understand the complexities this change introduces. If your marketing or business needs a helping hand be sure to book your free consultation.