Can you still file a CT600 for free?
The old HMRC and Companies House joint service closed on 31 March 2026. Find out what changed, what a replacement needs to do and which costs to check.
What changed on 31 March 2026
The former joint online service used to file company accounts and a Company Tax Return closed on 31 March 2026. HMRC guidance says users should use commercial software from 1 April 2026 for Company Tax Returns. Paper returns are limited to stated exceptions such as a reasonable excuse or filing in Welsh.
Is there another free CT600 filing option?
The former free joint online service is no longer available. Some commercial suppliers may offer free access, limited trials or lower-cost plans, but availability and conditions can change. Check each supplier’s current pricing before relying on a free option.
Do not assume that a free plan covers every company or return. A filing route must support your CT600, the accompanying accounts and tax computations, and any supplementary forms you need.
Compare the complete cost
Check the price and any limits before creating an account.
- A free offer versus a time-limited trial
- The cost per company or Company Tax Return
- Whether iXBRL accounts and tax computations are included
- Charges for supplementary forms, amendments or repeat filings
- Support, document storage and access to earlier submissions
Confirm the minimum filing package
For a typical online Company Tax Return, check whether the route can produce and transmit:
- The CT600 for the correct return period
- The company tax computation in the required electronic format
- iXBRL-tagged company accounts
- Required supplementary pages and attachments
- A readable validation report and HMRC response
You may need two separate submissions
Companies House accounts and your HMRC Company Tax Return have different filing requirements and may have different deadlines. Some software supports both, but check the supported accounts types and where each document is submitted.
Five checks before you choose
Make sure the software suits your company, not just your budget.
- Check HMRC recognition on GOV.UK for the actual Corporation Tax product
- Confirm it supports your CT600 and any necessary supplementary pages
- Check how accounts and tax computations are prepared and attached
- Verify whether Companies House filing is included or separate
- Ask how you will receive submission results and resolve rejected returns
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
Can I still use HMRC’s old free joint filing service?
No. The joint online service closed on 31 March 2026.
Is all commercial CT600 filing software paid?
Offers vary by supplier and can change. Check whether a free offer or trial covers your return, accounts, computations and submission before relying on it.
Must Company Tax Returns now be filed with commercial software?
HMRC says Company Tax Returns should be filed online using commercial software. Paper filing is restricted to limited exceptions.
Does one product necessarily file both HMRC and Companies House submissions?
No. Check the destinations and accounts types supported by the specific product.
Does Taxvie provide tax advice?
No. Taxvie provides filing workflow software and general information; the company or its adviser remains responsible for the figures and tax position.
Official sources
Checked on 2026-08-11. Official guidance takes priority if rules change.