HMRC’s joint online filing service, which allowed Limited Companies to submit both accounts and Company Tax Returns simultaneously to Companies House and HMRC, closed on March 31st 2026.

As of April 1st 2026, companies need to use commercial software to file their Company Tax Returns with HMRC. Companies House accounts can still be filed using commercial software, Companies House web services or paper filing.

Why did the service close?

The closure is part of HMRC's initiative to modernise its system and align it with updated digital standards, as well as changes in UK company law. The previous service no longer met the requirements of the Economic Crime and Corporate Transparency Act (ECCT Act). The changes also support the implementation of new measures, such as identity verification, to combat economic crime.

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What should companies do now?

If your company was using the joint service, you'll now need to use commercial software to file your Company Tax Returns with HMRC. You can choose from a range of commercial software providers, depending on your filing needs. HMRC publishes a list of recognised software suppliers.

You should also continue to file your annual accounts with Companies House. You can use commercial software, Companies House online services or paper filing, depending on the type of accounts you're filing.

If you previously used the joint service, Companies House recommends downloading and saving at least three years of accounts filings. You can no longer access previous filings through the old service.

This is the perfect time to consider moving to an online accounting software provider (like Crunch!). We offer easy-to-use software that allows businesses to manage both Companies House accounts and Company Tax Returns with HMRC seamlessly. Transitioning to this software now will ensure your business is fully prepared for the upcoming changes and able to submit filings efficiently.

But what about old returns? Can I amend a return submitted through the old service?

If you need to make changes to a Company Tax Return that was submitted through the old service, you can still make an amendment. You can use commercial software, write to HMRC, or send paper returns to the Corporation Tax office. Alternatively, you can use an agent like Crunch to do so too.

The move to a fully digital filing system

From April the 1st 2026, businesses generally need to use commercial software to submit their Company Tax Returns to HMRC. Paper filing is only available in limited circumstances, such as where a company has a reasonable excuse or chooses to file in Welsh.

Companies House accounts are different. You can still file eligible accounts using Companies House online services or by post. However, Companies House has announced that all companies will need to file their annual accounts using commercial software from April 1st 2028.

At Crunch, we’re here to guide you through the change, helping you keep your filings accurate, timely and compliant with the new requirements.

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