Important Update: Joint Online Filing Service Closing – What Your Business Needs to Know

Companies House and HMRC have announced a significant change that will impact how businesses file their accounts and Company Tax Returns. The current joint online filing service is set to close on 31 March 2026. Here's a breakdown of what this means for you and what steps you need to take.

What's Changing?

For years, businesses have been able to file their annual accounts and Company Tax Returns simultaneously through a joint online service. However, this service is being decommissioned.

• Closure Date: 31 March 2026.

• Post-Closure Filing: From 1 April 2026, you will need to file:

  • Annual Accounts with Companies House using third-party software, their web services, or paper filing.

  • Company Tax Returns with HMRC exclusively through compatible software.

    
    

Why Is This Happening?

The decision to close the service stems from outdated technology, which no longer aligns with:

• Modern digital standards.

• Enhanced Corporation Tax requirements.

• Changes to UK company law under the Economic Crime and Corporate Transparency Act (ECCT Act).

Furthermore, this change supports Companies House's ongoing digital transformation and efforts to combat economic crime, including the introduction of identity verification processes.

What You Need to Do Now:

1. Download and Save Past Filings:

   • It's crucial to download and save at least three years' worth of your company's accounts filings.

   • You will lose access to these filings on the current service after 1 April 2026.

2. Explore Software Filing Options:

   • Begin researching and selecting suitable accounting software that meets both Companies House and HMRC filing requirements.

   • Find a provider that is compatible with the new standards.

3. Prepare for Software-Only Accounts Filing:

   • Companies House will eventually move to software-only accounts filing.

   • While other methods are currently available, transitioning to software now will ensure a smoother transition.

4. Stay Informed:

   • Keep up-to-date with announcements from Companies House and HMRC regarding these changes.

     
     

The Benefits of Software Filing:

• Enhanced Flexibility: Software provides greater flexibility in presenting your company's financial data.

• Increased Functionality: Many software packages offer additional features to support your business operations.

• Digital Transformation: This move aligns with the UK's push for digital filing and international best practices.

• Prevention of Economic Crime: supports the ECCT act.

  
  

Companies House has committed to providing at least 21 months' notice before the complete transition to software-only accounts filing.

Don't wait until the last minute. Start preparing now by downloading your past filings and exploring software options. This change is designed to modernise the filing process and enhance security, so early preparation is essential.