From April 2026, UK limited companies will no longer be able to file their company tax returns and annual accounts through a single online service. HMRC and Companies House have announced the closure of their joint filing system as part of a wider move to modernise digital reporting.
Joint filing service closure – summary of changes
- Service ending: April 2026
- Who’s affected?: All UK limited companies
- Current system: Businesses can file tax returns and annual accounts together
- Future system: Separate submissions to HMRC and Companies House
- Next steps: Businesses should review their accounting process in advance
Here’s what you need to know and how to prepare.
What is the joint filing service?
The joint filing service was introduced in 2007 to simplify compliance. It allowed limited companies to file their:
- company tax return (CT600) to HMRC, and
- annual accounts to Companies House in a single online submission using approved software
This ‘file once’ model reduced duplication and helped save time for small business owners and accountants.
Why is the service ending?
HMRC and Companies House have confirmed that the joint service will be decommissioned from April 2026. It’s likely this decision has been made to:
- streamline the different digital services
- align with broader Making Tax Digital policies
- improve data accuracy and integrity across departments
The closure comes at the same time as another big change for limited company owners – with a recent Economic Crime and Corporate Transparency Act update requiring identity verification on Companies House from autumn 2025.
Closure of tax service – what’s the timeline?
| Date | Change |
| Now – March 2026 | Businesses can continue using the joint filing service |
| April 2026 | The service will be permanently closed |
| Post-2026 | Companies must submit accounts and tax returns separately through each organisation’s platform |
This change applies to all UK-based limited companies regardless of size or sector.
What should business owners do to prepare?
To stay compliant and avoid potential files, you should begin planning for the change now by:
- Reviewing your accounting software: make sure it supports separate submissions to both HMRC and Companies House
- Speaking to your accountant: ask about any changes in processes, deadlines, or software requirements
- Staying informed: subscribe to updates from the government website
- Understanding the split filing process: learn the differences between submitting a CT600 and annual accounts
Download your previous accounts before you lose access
After the service is closed, business owners will be unable to access previous company account filings and tax returns. Because of this, the government is recommending business owners download and save at least three years of accounts.
If you’re still unsure of the upcoming changes, you can speak to a qualified accountant or tax advisor to review your financial process.
Read more: The 8 best self-employed accounting software for 2025
HMRC and Companies House joint filing service closure – key takeaways
The closure of the joint tax return service is a key compliance change that all limited companies need to prepare for. While it adds a new administrative step, the shift could help improve accuracy and alignment between the two UK tax authorities.
By adjusting your processes in advance of the closure, you can make sure you have a smooth transition before the changes come into effect.
FAQs: joint filing service closure
Can I still use the joint service in 2025?
Yes, you can continue using the current joint filing service for tax years ending before April 2026.
What will change after 2026?
You’ll need to file your company tax return to HMRC and your annual accounts to Companies House through separate platforms or software.
Will I need different software?
Possibly. Some software providers may update their platforms to support the upcoming changes – but others might not. Check with your provider or accountant early.
What will happen if I forget to file separately?
If you forget to file your company tax return and annual accounts separately, you may receive a penalty or non-compliance notice.
More guides for limited companies
- HMRC’s crackdown on tax avoidance
- What is Making Tax Digital? A guide for small businesses
- Small business tax changes: new thresholds, rates, and allowances
- When and how to pay corporation tax – a guide for UK businesses
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