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UK Landlords: Is Your Portfolio Ready for the Digital Tax Revolution? (Making Tax Digital for Landlords)

UK Landlords: Is Your Portfolio Ready for the Digital Tax Revolution? (Making Tax Digital for Landlords)

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UK Landlords: Is Your Portfolio Ready for the Digital Tax Revolution? (Making Tax Digital for Landlords)

Attention UK landlords! The way you manage your property finances and report to HMRC is undergoing a major transformation. Making Tax Digital for Income Tax Self Assessment (‘MTD IT’) is no longer a distant whisper – it’s becoming a reality, and Taxfile is here to help you navigate this essential change.

Forget the headache of last-minute annual Self-Assessment tax returns! MTD for Landlords is designed to streamline your landlord tax obligations, demanding a shift to digital record keeping and MTD-compatible software. Don’t get caught unprepared – let’s explore everything you need to know about MTD for landlords and how to ensure a smooth transition.

Unpacking Making Tax Digital (MTD) for Landlords

MTD is a cornerstone of HMRC’s initiative to modernise the UK tax system, making it more efficient and accurate. For landlords, this translates into a few key changes:

Mandatory Digital Record Keeping

Bid farewell to paper trails and spreadsheets! You’ll be required to keep all your rental income and expenses in a digital format, using HMRC-recognised software. This includes meticulous details of income received, dates, amounts, sources, and all supporting documents like receipts and invoices.

Quarterly Digital Updates

The biggest shift! Instead of a single annual submission, summaries of your income and expenses are submitted to HMRC every three months through the HMRC-approved software. This offers a more real-time picture of your tax position.

The New “Final Declaration”

At the end of the tax year, a final reconciliation is submitted to HMRC, confirming the accuracy of your quarterly updates and finalising your overall tax liability. This effectively replaces your traditional annual Self-Assessment tax return.

Will MTD for Landlords Affect YOU?

(Key Income Thresholds)

The implementation of MTD for Landlords is phased, so understanding your MTD income threshold is crucial:

  • From April 6, 2026: If your total annual gross income from property (and any self-employment) exceeded £50,000 in the 2024-25 tax year, you’ll be mandated into MTD.
  • From April 6, 2027: The requirement expands to landlords with a total annual gross income from property (and any self-employment) over £30,000.
  • From April 6, 2028: The scheme is set to include landlords with a total annual gross income from property (and any self-employment) exceeding £20,000.

Important Consideration: This “income” refers to your gross income before any expenses are deducted. If you jointly own property, the threshold applies to your individual share of the income. Even if your income falls below these thresholds, you have the option to voluntarily sign up for MTD, allowing you to get ahead of the curve.

Finding Your Perfect MTD Landlord Software Solution

To comply with MTD IT, you absolutely must use software that is HMRC-compatible and can communicate directly with HMRC’s systems. This software will be your new best friend for:

  • Maintaining precise digital records of your income and expenses.
  • Submitting your quarterly updates to HMRC with ease.
  • Submitting your final declaration to complete your tax year.

While there are many options for accounting software for landlords MTD, we at Taxfile are particularly impressed with FreeAgent for its user-friendliness and powerful features.

We recommend FreeAgent for MTD IT and digital accounting for landlords.

Why We Recommend FreeAgent for Landlords:

  • Free access potential — FreeAgent is completely free to you while you bank with NatWest, Royal Bank of Scotland, Ulster Bank, or have a Mettle Account (just ensure Mettle is set as your primary business account within the software). This is a significant cost-saving for landlords.
  • Tailored for landlords — FreeAgent offers a version specifically designed to meet the unique needs of property owners, including a convenient mobile app for landlords to manage finances on the go.
  • Unincorporated landlord support — FreeAgent is specifically tailored for unincorporated landlords.
  • Automated bank imports — Say goodbye to manual data entry! FreeAgent automatically imports bank transactions, simplifying your landlord bookkeeping.
  • HMRC compatible & user-friendly — It’s fully recognised by HMRC for MTD and boasts an intuitive interface, making it accessible even for those new to digital accounting.
  • Excellent support & training — FreeAgent provides top-notch customer support and comprehensive training resources, helping you get the most out of the software.

Any optional add-ons may be chargeable.

Your Essential MTD Preparation Checklist: Don’t Delay!

MTD is a substantial change, but with a proactive approach, you can ensure a smooth transition. Here’s your action plan:

  1. Assess your income. Confirm your gross property and self-employment income for recent tax years to pinpoint your mandatory MTD start date.
  2. Embrace digital records NOW. Start digitising all your rental income and expenses immediately. This will make the transition to MTD software much easier.
  3. Research & select MTD-compatible software. Explore options like FreeAgent or other HMRC-recognised landlord accounting software that suits your portfolio size and needs.
  4. Get hands-on with your software. Familiarise yourself with your chosen software’s features for record keeping and submitting updates well before the deadlines.
  5. Consider the MTD pilot (if eligible). Voluntarily joining the MTD for Income Tax pilot can provide invaluable experience with the system in a low-pressure environment.
  6. Partner with Taxfile. This is where we come in! Our team at Taxfile is ready to provide expert MTD advice for landlords and guide you every step of the way.

Taxfile is Here to Help You Thrive with MTD!

Navigating new tax legislation can be daunting, but you don’t have to do it alone. Taxfile offers comprehensive support for landlords preparing for MTD:

Expert Guidance & Setup

We can answer all your MTD for landlords questions and assist with the initial setup of your chosen software.

Structured Planning

We’ll help you establish monthly goals to ensure your digital tax records are up-to-date, avoiding a last-minute rush before those crucial MTD deadlines.

Bookkeeping & Quarterly Filing Assistance

Whether you need a little help or full involvement, we can assist with your landlord bookkeeping and ensure accurate quarterly submissions.

Don’t let Making Tax Digital for Landlords become a burden. Contact Taxfile today to ensure your property portfolio is MTD-ready and positioned for continued success!

020 8761 8000 Book Appointment Contact Us

Companies House ID Verification 2025: A Director's Guide to the New UK Rules

Companies House ID Verification 2025: A Director’s Guide to the New UK Rules

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Companies House ID Verification 2025: A Director's Guide to the New UK Rules

A major change is coming for all UK company directors in 2025. Companies House is introducing mandatory identity verification and we’ve created this essential guide to explain what the new director ID verification rules mean for you, ensuring you stay compliant and avoid significant penalties.

These new measures are part of the Economic Crime and Corporate Transparency Act (ECCTA), a significant piece of legislation designed to improve the quality of data on the UK Companies Register and prevent corporate structures from being used for fraudulent activities.

This guide will walk you through the key changes, deadlines, and the exact steps you need to take.

What Are the New Director ID Verification Rules?

The core of the new legislation is the requirement for all new and existing company directors and other key individuals to verify their identity with Companies House. The goal is to ensure that every registered company has a real, verified person behind it, making it much harder to appoint fictitious directors or hide beneficial ownership.

This is a one-time verification process per individual, regardless of how many directorships you hold.

Who Needs to Complete the Companies House Identity Verification?

The new identity verification requirements apply to a wide range of individuals. You will need to verify your identity if you are:

  • An existing or newly appointed company director.
  • A Person with Significant Control (PSC).
  • A member of a Limited Liability Partnership (LLP).
  • Any individual who files information or documentation with Companies House.

Key Deadlines:

When Do I Need to Be Verified By?

The rollout of these new ID check rules is happening in phases. It’s crucial to be aware of these dates:

  • From April 8, 2025 (Voluntary Verification) — You can (and should) get ahead of the deadline by verifying your identity now.
  • From Autumn 2025 (Mandatory for New Appointments) — ID verification will be compulsory for all new company incorporations and for any newly appointed directors or PSCs.
  • Autumn 2025 – Autumn 2026 (Transitional Period for Existing Directors) — If you are an existing director, you will have a 12-month window to verify your identity. This period will be linked to your company’s confirmation statement filing date.
  • From Spring 2026 (Mandatory for Filers) — Anyone who files documents with Companies House, such as accountants or administrative staff, must have a verified identity.

Step-by-Step:

How to Complete Your ID Verification

There are two official methods for completing your director identity verification:

1. Directly with Companies House (digital route): This is a free digital process using the GOV.UK One Login system. You will need a form of photo ID, such as a passport or UK driving licence. The system will ask you to take a photo of your document and then a “selfie” to biometrically match your identity.

2. An in-person option at a Post Office will be available for those unable to use the digital service.

Penalties for Non-Compliance:

What Happens If You Don’t Verify?

Companies House is taking these new rules very seriously. Failing to verify your identity within the deadline is not an option. The consequences of non-compliance are significant and include:

  • A Criminal Offence — It will be a criminal offence for the unverified individual.
  • Financial Penalties — You could face substantial fines.
  • Inability to Act — You will be unable to legally act as a director.
  • Filings Blocked — You will be barred from filing any documents for your company.
  • Director Disqualification — You could be disqualified from being a director.
  • Reputational Damage — The public register will flag your status as “unverified,” which could damage your company’s credibility.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Is Companies House identity verification free?
A: Yes, verifying your identity directly with Companies House using the GOV.UK One Login system is free.

Q: What documents do I need for the ID check?
A: You will typically need a form of photographic ID. A valid passport or a UK photocard driving licence are the most common documents used.

Q: What happens if I am a director of multiple companies?
A: You only need to verify your identity once. The verified status will then be linked to your name and apply across all your directorships.

Lowering the Secondary Threshold for Employer NI – What You Need to Know

Lowering the Secondary Threshold for Employer NI – What You Need to Know

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Lowering the Secondary Threshold for Employer NI – What You Need to Know

From April 2025, the secondary threshold for employer National Insurance (‘NI’) will be lowered. This means that employers will need to start paying employer NI contributions on their employees’ earnings sooner.

How Will This Affect Employers?

This change will affect employers in a number of ways. Firstly, employers will need to pay more in employer NI contributions. Secondly, employers will need to update their payroll systems to reflect the new threshold.

Employer NI and Employment Allowance Update

As an employer, you are responsible for deducting and paying National Insurance contributions (‘NICs’) for your employees. There are two types of NICs:

  • Employer NICs — These are paid by you as the employer.
  • Employee NICs — These are deducted from your employees’ wages.

Employment Allowance

The Employment Allowance is a relief that allows eligible employers to reduce their National Insurance contributions. The allowance increases from £5,000 to £10,500 per year from April 2025.

Increase in Employer NICs

From April 2025, the rate of Employer NICs increases from 13.8% to 15%. This means that you will need to pay more NICs for your employees.

How Taxfile Accountants Can Help

Taxfile Accountant can help you with all aspects of your payroll, including:

  • Calculating and deducting NICs
  • Claiming the Employment Allowance
  • Preparing and filing your payroll reports

We can also provide you with advice on how to minimise your NICs liability.

Information You Need to Supply for Professional Help with Your Tax Return

Information You Need to Supply for Professional Help with Your Tax Return

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Information You Need to Supply for Professional Help with Your Tax Return

If you’re self-employed in the UK, you need to file a self-assessment tax return each year. It’s not only the self-employed, though. If you are on a higher income* or receive untaxed income from property rental, savings, investments, or dividends, you also have to submit a return. Getting all the fields filled in properly and the figures right can sometimes be difficult, though. That’s where professional help will be worth its weight in gold. But what information will your accountant or tax advisor need from you? That’s what today’s post is all about, and we’ll explain exactly what information you’ll need to supply.

* (Those earning more than £100,000 currently, or over £150,000 from next year). Read more

The Early Bird Catches the Worm — The Benefits of Acting on Taxes Sooner

The Early Bird Catches the Worm — The Benefits of Acting on Taxes Sooner

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The Early Bird Catches the Worm — The Benefits of Acting on Taxes Sooner

by Ali at Taxfile.

For many self-employed UK taxpayers, the January Self-Assessment deadline looms like a tax-shaped storm cloud. But what if you could banish that pre-deadline panic and transform tax season into a breeze?

Psychology tells us that we are motivated when one set of thought processes outweighs the opposing ones, tipping the balance to make us act. With that in mind, here are 7 key things that may motivate you to act on your taxes sooner rather than later.

1. Knowledge is Power

Filing early gives you a clear picture of your tax bill. This allows you to budget effectively and avoid any nasty surprises come January. Knowing if you owe tax or are due a refund empowers you to make informed financial decisions.

2. Less Stress = Happier

If you owe tax, filing early lets you explore HMRC’s Budget Payment Plan. This lets you spread the cost of your tax bill over monthly or weekly instalments, making it much easier to manage.

3. Faster Refunds = Even Happier

If you’ve overpaid tax, filing early means a quicker turnaround on your refund. That extra cash can be a welcome boost for your finances.

4. Time is Money

January is a notoriously busy time for HMRC and accountants. Filing early ensures you avoid spending hours over the phone to HMRC, or your accountant having to contact HMRC on your behalf and spending over 45 minutes on hold.

5. Spot Errors, Fix them with Ease

Sometimes mistakes happen. Filing early gives you time to review your return and identify any errors. This allows you or your accountant to rectify them before the deadline, avoiding potential penalties.

6. Proof of Income, When You Need It Most

A completed Self-Assessment tax return can be used as proof of income when applying for a mortgage, loan, or certain benefits. Filing early ensures you have this documentation known as an SA302 readily available.

7. More Time for Tax Efficiency (if Needed)

If your tax bill is higher than expected, filing early gives you more time to explore tax-saving opportunities with an accountant (if necessary). In our experience, it also allows us to keep an eye on your turnover and spot early if you might need to be VAT registered, or are steadily moving towards it. It could also allow us to advise whether you’d benefit from setting up a limited company.

File Early — and catch the worm!

By taking charge of your Self-Assessment early, you gain control of your finances and avoid unnecessary stress. So, ditch the last-minute panic and embrace the benefits of early filing.

Contact Taxfile & Take Control

At Taxfile we would like to instil healthy habits in our clients and encourage you to come and see us in the early months after April. By doing so, we can file your tax return early and remove all the stress and worry.

Get ready by making an appointment to see our tax agents today. Call, message, or use our online booking system:

020 8761 8000 Book Appointment Contact Us

Taxfile are tax advisors & accountants in Tulse Hill, and Dulwich, South London.

Do I Need to Register for Self-Assessment?

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Do I Need to Register for Self-Assessment?

by Mohamed at Taxfile.

In today’s guide, we look at the rules around whether or not you need to register for Self-Assessment and submit a tax return to HMRC each year. Let’s take a look.

Reasons to Register for Self-Assessment

You generally need to register for a Self-Assessment tax return if your income isn’t taxed at the source, meaning the tax isn’t automatically deducted from your wages/salary. Here are some common scenarios where you would need to register for self-assessment:

  • You are self-employed — sole traders, freelancers, and consultants typically fall under this category.
  • You receive rental income — if you earn income from renting out a property, you need to register.
  • You have a high income — employees earning over £100,000 per year need to register as their tax calculations may become more complex. (From 2023-24 you are only required to register if your income is above £150,000).
  • You have other income sources — this includes income from abroad, dividends, and partnership profits.

If you are still unsure about registration, please contact HMRC or call Taxfile on 0208 761 8000.

Registering for UK Taxes is Important

Registering for UK taxes is important for a few reasons, as we’ll explain below.

Firstly, it helps you avoid penalties. If you don’t register for Self-Assessment when required, you could face penalties from HMRC. These can be significant, especially if you’ve been earning income for a while without registering.

Secondly, it helps to ensure accurate tax payments. By registering and filing a Self-Assessment tax return, you ensure you’re paying the correct amount of tax. Without it, you might underpay and owe interest, or overpay and have to wait for a refund.

Thirdly, it helps you stay legally compliant. In severe cases, failing to register and pay your taxes can lead to legal action, including prosecution.

Registering also helps you maintain good standing with the Government. Being registered with HMRC shows you’re taking your tax obligations seriously. This can also be important if you’re applying for credit, a mortgage, or a visa.

Do Directors Need to Do a Self-Assessment?

Not all directors need to do a Self-Assessment tax return, but some do. Here’s a breakdown:

Directors with only PAYE income

If your only income from the company is through PAYE (Pay as You Earn), where tax is deducted at source, you generally don’t need to do a Self-Assessment.

Directors with additional income

If you have any other taxable income besides your salary, like dividends, company benefits, or income from another job, you likely do need to do a Self-Assessment tax return in order to report it.

However, even if you aren’t required to register, HMRC might still ask you to file a Self-Assessment return.

Learn more about director self-assessment here.

Why is Payroll Important for a Director?

Payroll ensures compliance with tax regulations. Directors are considered employees for tax purposes, and PAYE is the system used to collect Income Tax and National Insurance Contributions (NICs) from their salary. Running payroll ensures these deductions are made and reported correctly to HMRC.

Payroll creates a clear and accurate record of your director’s salary payments. This is important for tax purposes, but also for things like calculating benefits and pension contributions that might be tied to salary.

Being on payroll allows directors to qualify for certain benefits they wouldn’t get if paid through dividends alone. These can include enrolling in a company pension scheme and accruing National Insurance credits that contribute to your state pension.

Payroll ensures transparency by helping to maintain a clear separation between personal finances and the company’s finances. This is important for legal and accounting reasons.

While there might be tax advantages to structuring some of your director’s income as dividends, payroll remains a vital part of ensuring you’re following regulations and have a clear record of your director’s overall compensation.

Learn more about how to pay yourself as a director here.

Contact Taxfile – Accountants & Tax Advisors

Tax and accountancy help for South Londoners

If you need any accountancy help for your limited company or small business, Taxfile is here to help:

020 8761 8000 Book Appointment Contact Us

Are you in the South East or London? Taxfile has offices in Tulse Hill, and Dulwich, in South London.

Filing with Companies House – A Guide for Limited Companies

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Filing with Companies House - A Guide for Limited Companies

Companies House is the Government agency responsible for maintaining the public register of companies in the UK. Filing with Companies House typically refers to the submission of various documents and records, as required by the registrar of companies in the United Kingdom. In today’s guide, we’ll take a look at what types of document need to be filed, when to file them, and what happens if they’re not filed on time.

What Sort of Documents are Filed at Companies House?

Some of the most common types of filings with Companies House include the following:

Annual Accounts

Most companies are required to file annual accounts, which include a balance sheet, profit and loss account, and notes to the accounts. The filing deadline for this varies and depends on when the company was set up.

A company gets nine months from its year-end in which to file the company accounts to Companies House and such a period helps in some ways. However, it also leaves the company’s accountants with little time to prepare and the directors with very little time to pay their Corporation Tax bill. Ideally, therefore, records should be with the accountant in the month following the company’s year-end rather than in the month the deadline falls — which is so often the case.

Confirmation Statement

The Confirmation Statement replaced the Annual Return in 2016. It confirms that information about the company held by Companies House is accurate and up to date. The Confirmation Statement must be filed at least once a year, even if there have been no changes to the structure of the company (e.g. changes to directors, shareholders, share capital etc.).

It is very important to update the Confirmation Statement when it is due. That’s because, if it becomes too overdue, Companies House is quick these days with a potentially severe punishment: a proposal to strike off the company.

Changes to Company Details

Any changes to the company’s details, such as changes to the registered office address, directorships, company name, or share structure, need to be filed with Companies House.

Special Resolutions and Share Allotments

Similarly, any significant changes to the company’s structure or decisions made by shareholders (such as issuing new shares or changing the company’s constitution) need to be filed with Companies House.

Incorporation Documents

When registering a new company, various documents such as the Memorandum and Articles of Association need to be filed with Companies House.

Once the company has been set up, the director of the company will receive an Authentication Code. This needs to be kept safe as it works like a PIN code and is used for filings with Companies House online.

Company Dissolution

Conversely, if a company is being dissolved (closed down), the necessary paperwork also needs to be filed with Companies House.

Filing requirements and deadlines can vary depending on the type and size of the company. Failure to file required documents accurately and on time can result in penalties and other adverse consequences for the company and its officers. It’s important, therefore, for company directors and secretaries to stay on top of their filing obligations with Companies House. By doing so, they should avoid the negative consequences associated with non-compliance with the law.

Taxfile – Accountants & Tax Advisors, South London

Professional help for all your tax issues and accountancy needs

Get in touch with our friendly tax team today for accountancy help for your limited company or small business. We’ll be happy to help!

020 8761 8000 Book Appointment Contact Us

Taxfile are accountants and tax advisors in Tulse Hill, and Dulwich (South London).

Guide to the Employer Payment Summary (EPS) – for Limited Companies within the CIS

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Guide to the Employer Payment Summary (EPS) – for Limited Companies within the CIS

by Daniel at Taxfile.

Understanding the Employer Payment Summary (EPS) monthly claims for limited companies within the CIS

Limited company contractors operating within the Construction Industry Scheme (CIS) have distinct payroll obligations, including the submission of their Employer Payment Summary (EPS). In today’s guide, we’ll explain what the EPS is, its purpose, and the submission rules limited companies have to follow if they work within the Construction Industry Scheme.

What is the EPS?

The Employer Payment Summary serves as a crucial mechanism for limited company contractors to report additional payments, deductions, and adjustments to HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC) alongside their regular payroll submissions. While all such employers submit a monthly EPS, limited company contractors operating under CIS have specific considerations due to their status and the nature of their work within the construction industry.

The purpose of submitting monthly EPSs for Limited Company Contractors in the CIS

The primary purpose of EPSs for limited company contractors operating within the CIS is to provide HMRC with accurate information about deductions suffered under the Construction Industry Scheme. By submitting each monthly EPS for CIS, limited company contractors also ensure compliance with CIS regulations and provide HMRC with essential data for tax calculations and entitlements.

Submitting an EPS for Limited Company Contractors working within the CIS

Limited company contractors operating within CIS are required to submit an EPS to HMRC every month, even if there are no adjustments to report. EPSs should be submitted after the end of the tax month but before the 19th of the following month, in line with HMRC guidelines.

Contractors can use HMRC’s online services or compatible payroll software to submit their monthly EPS for CIS. It’s crucial to ensure that the information provided in each EPS accurately reflects the deductions suffered under CIS.

The CIS deductions suffered sent through an EPS are promptly reflected as a credit on the PAYE account. This credit will then be utilised to set off against other liabilities, including PAYE tax, National Insurance Contributions (NIC), and subcontractor’s tax submitted through the CIS300 return.

When sending the EPS you can also claim Employment Allowance and recover statutory payments that exceed the amount of PAYE due.

Submitting EPSs late may lead to penalties imposed by HMRC, which can vary based on the extent and frequency of delays.

CIS Accountancy Help from Taxfile

At Taxfile, we can provide guidance on compliance requirements, tax calculations, and record-keeping practices.

Get in touch today for any accountancy or tax issue that needs expert help.


020 8761 8000 Book Appointment Contact Us

We can help whether you are a contractor, subcontractor, sole trader or limited company business in South London.

We are accountants in Tulse Hill, and Dulwich.

CIS Contractor's Monthly Return (CIS300) - Explained

CIS Contractor’s Monthly Return (CIS300)

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CIS Contractor's Monthly Return (CIS300) - Explained

by Daniel at Taxfile.

The CIS Contractor’s Monthly Return is a mandatory requirement for contractors operating within the Construction Industry Scheme (CIS). It acts as a mechanism for contractors to disclose to HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) payments issued to subcontractors and the corresponding tax deductions withheld from those payments. By providing HMRC with information regarding payments rendered and the accompanying tax deductions, the CIS Contractor’s Monthly Return guarantees transparency and adherence to regulations within the construction sector. In today’s guide, we explain the various components of the monthly ‘CIS300’ return, how the process works, key deadlines, the ramifications of non-compliance, and much more.

Key Components of the Monthly Return

The CIS Contractor’s Monthly Return typically includes the following key components:

This section includes information about the contractor, such as their name, Unique Taxpayer Reference (UTR), and contact details. Ensuring accuracy in this section is crucial for HMRC’s records and communication purposes.

Contractors must provide details of all subcontractors they have engaged during the reporting period. This includes the subcontractors’ names, UTRs, and payment amounts.

Contractors must report the total payments made to each subcontractor during the reporting period. This information helps HMRC track payments within the construction industry and verify compliance with tax obligations.

Contractors are required to calculate and report the tax deductions made from payments to subcontractors. The deducted amounts are typically based on the subcontractors’ verification status and tax treatment under the CIS.

The Monthly Return concludes with the calculation of the total amount due to HMRC, taking into account the tax deductions made from payments to subcontractors.

Deadlines and Reporting Periods

The CIS Contractor’s Monthly Return deadlines follow a structured timeline, which includes:

  • The submission deadline — contractors must submit their Monthly Returns to HMRC by the 19th of each month following the end of the reporting period. (Contractors’ payments to HMRC must also be made by this date).
  • The reporting period covered by each Monthly Return — which typically spans from the 6th of the previous month to the 5th of the current one.

Making Your CIS Payments to HMRC

Once you’ve calculated the total CIS deductions, prepare to make the payment to HMRC. You will need to have the following information ready:

  • Your Unique Taxpayer Reference (UTR) number;
  • Your payment reference, which is your 13-character Accounts Office reference number followed by the letter ‘C’ (e.g., 123PA12345678C);
  • The amount you’re paying.

HMRC offers various payment options for settling your CIS liabilities, which are explained here.

  • A contractor who operates as a limited company and also acts as a subcontractor might find that they are exempt from making any payments to HMRC. Subcontractors who do not have gross payment status will incur CIS deductions, which can then be used to offset any CIS payments owed to HMRC. This is exclusively available to limited companies. Please look out for our forthcoming blog focused on the CIS claim — a hyperlink will follow here once it’s live.

Implications of Non-Compliance

Failure to meet CIS Contractor’s Monthly Return deadlines can lead to various consequences, which may include the following:

  • Penalties — HMRC may impose penalties for late or non-submission of Monthly Returns, which can escalate over time.
  • Loss of benefits — non-compliance with CIS obligations, including Monthly Return deadlines, can lead to loss of benefits such as gross payment status, affecting contractors’ cash flow and competitiveness.

Managing the CIS Monthly Return Process

For contractors, efficiently managing the CIS Contractor’s Monthly Return process involves the following steps:

1. Maintain Accurate Records

Contractors should maintain accurate records of payments made to subcontractors and tax deductions applied. This includes keeping track of invoices, receipts, and CIS statements.

2. Timely Submission

The Monthly Return must be submitted to HMRC by the 19th of each month following the end of the reporting period. Contractors should ensure timely submission to avoid penalties and maintain compliance.

3. Use HMRC Online Services

HMRC provides online services for submitting CIS returns, making the process convenient and accessible for contractors. Registering for and using these online services can streamline the submission process and reduce administrative burdens.

The CIS Contractor’s Monthly Return is the key tool through which to report payments and tax deductions accurately to HMRC. Understanding its components and effectively navigating the submission process helps to ensure that contractors are compliant — and also avoids unnecessary penalties.

Rest assured, though: Taxfile is here when you need help with CIS returns and accountancy for construction workers, bookkeeping, CIS tax rebates for subcontractors, limited company accounts, and any tax-related matters that require professional help. We’re happy to provide guidance on compliance requirements, tax calculations, record-keeping practices, and much more.

Contact Taxfile

We’re Tax Advisors & Accountants Helping Contractors, Subcontractors & Businesses Across South London


020 8761 8000 Book Appointment Contact Us

We have accountancy practices in Tulse Hill and Dulwich in South London.

Pension Contribution Deadline Extended

Deadline for Voluntary Insurance Contributions Extended to 5th April 2025

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Deadline for Voluntary Insurance Contributions Extended to 5th April 2025

The original deadline for buying National Insurance ‘credit’ was 31st July 2023, but you can now ‘buy’ incomplete years to boost your state pension until 5th April 2025. The extension was approved by the Government, giving HMRC more time to deal with the process.

You can view our original blog on what you need to do to plug the gaps in your National Insurance contributions here.