The long‑standing joint filing service ended in April 2026, requiring companies to submit accounts and tax returns separately.
For nearly two decades, UK companies enjoyed a convenient system allowing them to file annual accounts and corporation tax returns together. That era has now ended.
What happened?
- The joint filing service closed in April 2026.
- Companies must now file:
- CT600 to HMRC
- Annual accounts to Companies House separately, using each organisation’s platform.
Why was it discontinued?
HMRC and Companies House are aligning with:
- Making Tax Digital (MTD)
- Modern digital standards
- Improved data accuracy and security
What stays the same?
- Deadlines:
- Accounts: 9 months after year‑end
- CT600: 12 months after year‑end
What businesses should do now
- Review accounting software
- Update internal workflows
- Ensure staff understand the new two‑step process
Final thought
This change increases admin but also improves data integrity, a worthwhile trade‑off for long‑term compliance.