Corporation tax returns

Every limited company must file a company tax return (CT600) with HMRC and pay corporation tax on its profits. Upon completion of your annual accounts, SCEPTRE prepares the company tax return and files it with HMRC on your behalf — on time, so late filing penalties are avoided — and advises you of your tax liability well before payment is due.

Current corporation tax rates

• 19% on profits up to £50,000 (the small profits rate)
• 25% on profits over £250,000 (the main rate)
• An effective rate between the two on profits from £50,000 to £250,000, via marginal relief

Which rate you pay — and how associated companies, dividends and timing affect it — is exactly the kind of thing worth discussing before year end rather than after.

Key deadlines

• Payment: corporation tax is due 9 months and 1 day after your accounting period ends
• Filing: the CT600 is due 12 months after the period ends

Note the payment deadline falls before the filing deadline — a trap for the unwary.

Claiming what you are entitled to

Preparing the return properly means claiming the reliefs and allowances available to you: capital allowances on equipment and vehicles (including the Annual Investment Allowance), allowable expenses, and loss relief where applicable. A rushed return often means tax overpaid.

Frequently asked questions

My company made no profit. Do I still need to file? Yes — a return is required even for a loss-making or dormant-trading period, and losses properly recorded now can reduce tax bills later.

Can you deal with HMRC if they raise queries? Yes. We act as your agent and handle all correspondence with HMRC on your behalf.

Company year end coming up? Contact SCEPTRE for a free consultation.