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Corporation Tax Returns for UK Limited Companies
Accurate CT600 returns prepared and filed on time, with Corporation Tax calculated correctly at every threshold.
Every UK limited company must calculate and pay Corporation Tax on its profits, and file a CT600 return with HMRC, regardless of size. The rules around rates, reliefs and deadlines have become more layered in recent years, particularly since the return of different rates for different profit levels. At Durhams Accountants we prepare Corporation Tax returns for limited companies across Wakefield, Yorkshire and the wider UK, calculating your liability accurately, claiming every relief you’re entitled to, and making sure both your return and payment deadlines are met without you having to track two separate dates.
How Corporation Tax Rates Work
Corporation Tax is charged at 19% for companies with profits under £50,000, and at the main rate of 25% for profits over £250,000. Companies with profits between these two limits pay tax at the main rate but benefit from Marginal Relief, which tapers the effective rate down between the two thresholds. These limits are also reduced if you have associated companies, which catches some group structures out. We calculate your liability correctly at whichever point your profits fall, and make sure any associated company rules are properly applied.
Two Deadlines, Not One
One of the most common points of confusion is that your CT600 return and your Corporation Tax payment have different deadlines. The return itself must be filed within 12 months of the end of your accounting period, but the tax is actually due earlier, nine months and one day after the period end. Paying late attracts interest even if your return is filed on time, and vice versa, so both dates need tracking separately. We build reminders well ahead of both deadlines into our process, so neither one catches you by surprise.
Reliefs and Deductions Worth Checking
Corporation Tax returns are also where many valuable reliefs are claimed, from capital allowances on equipment and machinery to R&D tax relief where your company carries out qualifying development work. We review your accounts specifically for reliefs that are often missed, rather than simply transposing figures from your annual accounts into a return. For companies investing in equipment, technology or new product development, this review can make a meaningful difference to the tax actually payable.
Our Process: How We Prepare Your Corporation Tax Return
1
Review your accounts
We work from your finalised annual accounts and supporting records.
2
Identify reliefs
We check for capital allowances, R&D relief and other deductions you’re entitled to.
3
Calculate your liability
We apply the correct rate and any Marginal Relief based on your profit level.
4
Prepare the CT600
We complete and review your Corporation Tax return before submission.
5
File and confirm deadlines
We file on time and confirm both your filing and payment dates clearly.
Switching Accountants Made Simple
Many clients come to us partway through their accounting period, often because their current accountant is slow to respond or has missed a Corporation Tax deadline in the past. Switching is far simpler than most business owners expect, and you don’t need to wait until your year end to make the move. We handle the process on your behalf, requesting professional clearance and records from your previous accountant, reviewing your position, and picking up exactly where you left off with no disruption to your filing or payment deadlines.
Why Choose Durhams Accountants
Corporation Tax now involves more moving parts than a single flat rate, and getting the detail wrong, or missing a relief, costs real money. We calculate your liability precisely, check for reliefs that are often overlooked, and track both your filing and payment deadlines so you’re never caught out by the gap between the two. Based in Wakefield and working with limited companies across Yorkshire and the UK, we combine technical accuracy with clear, plain-English explanations of what you owe and why.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is my Corporation Tax actually due?
Corporation Tax is due nine months and one day after the end of your accounting period, which is earlier than the 12-month deadline for filing your CT600 return.
What rate of Corporation Tax will my company pay?
Companies with profits under £50,000 pay 19%, those over £250,000 pay 25%, and profits in between benefit from Marginal Relief, which tapers the effective rate.
Do associated companies affect my tax rate?
Yes, having associated companies reduces the profit thresholds for the small profits rate and Marginal Relief, so group structures need particular care.
Can you claim R&D tax relief as part of my Corporation Tax return?
Yes, if your company carries out qualifying research and development, we can identify and claim this relief as part of preparing your return.
What happens if I file or pay late?
Late filing triggers automatic penalties, while late payment attracts interest from the due date, so both deadlines need to be tracked and met separately.
How much does it cost to prepare a Corporation Tax return?
Pricing depends on the complexity of your accounts and reliefs available. We agree a fixed fee in advance, often alongside your annual accounts.
Get your Corporation Tax calculated correctly
Talk to us about your company’s accounting period, or use the form alongside this page for a no-obligation quote.