How to choose Corporation Tax filing software for your company
Check the CT600, accounts and tax computations you need to file. Then compare software features, ease of use, support and the full cost.
Start with the return you need to file
Write down the company type, accounting period, accounts format, and any tax reliefs or supplementary forms that apply. A straightforward company return may need different software features from a long accounting period, group relief claim or more specialist filing.
Check what the software can file
Look for clear answers on the supplier’s product page or ask its support team.
- CT600 returns and the supplementary pages you need
- Company accounts and Corporation Tax computations in iXBRL format
- Companies House accounts filing, if you need it
- Corrections, amendments and rejected returns
- Updates when HMRC filing formats or requirements change
Try the steps before you buy
Check how easy it is to enter your company details, prepare your accounts and tax figures, see possible mistakes, and review the return before submission. Make sure you can tell whether HMRC has received and accepted the filing.
Check security and support
If you file for more than one company or work with a team, these details matter.
- Who can view, edit and submit a return
- Separate records for each company and accounting period
- How to save your filed documents and submission receipts
- What happens when a return is rejected
- Where to get help close to a filing deadline
Compare the whole cost
Look beyond the headline price. Check whether there are separate charges for each company, return, accounts preparation, iXBRL documents, extra forms, amendments and support. A cheaper plan may cost more if essential filing steps are excluded.
Where professional judgement is needed
This guide explains a filing workflow, not the accounting treatment, tax position or legal duties of a particular company. Confirm the applicable accounting framework, reliefs, disclosures and filing obligations against current official guidance and, where needed, a qualified accountant or tax adviser.
FAQ
Does HMRC recommend particular Corporation Tax software?
No. HMRC lists recognised software suppliers but does not endorse or recommend one product over another.
Is CT600 submission alone enough?
Usually not. The filing package normally also needs iXBRL accounts and computations, plus any relevant supplementary pages or attachments.
Should software support Companies House as well as HMRC?
That depends on the workflow. Combined support can reduce transfer work, but verify the exact accounts types and destinations rather than assuming both are included.
What evidence should be retained?
Retain the authorised filing package, validation output, submitted artefacts, timestamps, submission references and acceptance or rejection responses.
Official sources
Checked on 2026-08-11. Official guidance takes priority if rules change.