Average Price for a Corporate Tax Return

If you’re running a limited company in the UK, one of the first questions you’ll ask before the Corporation Tax deadline is simple: what is the average price for a corporate tax return? The answer matters more than most directors realise. Pay too little, and you risk HMRC errors, penalties, or missed reliefs. Pay too much, and you drain cash flow unnecessarily.

For UK business owners, the average price for corporate tax return services varies widely depending on company size, complexity, and compliance history. From micro-entities filing a straightforward CT600 to growing businesses with VAT, payroll, and dividends, pricing is rarely one-size-fits-all. When you understand typical pricing, you can budget effectively, choose a suitable accountant, and maintain compliance in a cost-effective way.

This guide explains the average price for corporate tax return in the UK, what drives the cost, and how UK accountants actually price these services—without jargon, sales fluff, or vague ranges.

 

The average price for a corporate tax return in the UK typically ranges from £300 to £1,500, depending on business size, transaction volume, and whether bookkeeping, accounts preparation, or tax planning are included. Simple limited companies sit at the lower end, while complex or fast-growing businesses pay more.

 

What Is the Average Price for a Corporate Tax Return in the UK?

For most UK limited companies, the average price for corporate tax return filing sits between £500 and £1,000 when handled by a qualified accountant.

Clear explanation:

A corporate tax return (CT600) is not just a form submission. It must be supported by compliant statutory accounts, accurate calculations, and HMRC-approved formats. As a result, the average price for corporate tax return services reflects both technical responsibility and risk carried by the accountant.

In the UK market today, pricing generally falls into three broad bands:

• Lower range (£300–£500):

Very small or dormant companies with minimal activity and clean records.

• Mid-range (£600–£1,000):

Most small limited companies, including director salaries, dividends, and standard expenses. This is where the true average price for corporate tax return usually sits.

• Upper range (£1,200–£1,500+):

Businesses with VAT, payroll, multiple income streams, or prior HMRC complications.

Unlike personal tax returns, corporate filings involve higher compliance risk. This is why the average price for corporate tax return in the UK is significantly higher than self-assessment fees and why HMRC accuracy standards heavily influence cost.

Key UK-specific insight:

If your accountant is quoting far below the UK average price for corporate tax return services, it often means limited review, no tax planning, or exclusions that later appear as “extras.”

Why this matters for UK directors

The average price for corporate tax return isn’t just about cost—it’s about protection. A properly prepared return reduces HMRC enquiry risk, ensures reliefs are claimed correctly, and gives directors confidence that their company remains compliant.

How Much Does a UK Accountant Charge for a Corporate Tax Return?

A UK accountant typically charges between £300 and £2,000+ for a corporate tax return, depending on whether the company is a micro-entity, SME, or growing limited company, and whether services are provided by an online or local accountant. The average price for corporate tax return services increases with complexity and compliance risk.

UK Corporate Tax Return Pricing Snapshot (2026)

The table below shows realistic UK market pricing, reflecting how accountants actually charge—not headline teaser rates.

How to Read This Pricing Correctly (UK Context)

The average price for corporate tax return services is not determined by company size alone. UK accountants price based on risk, responsibility, and time. A micro-entity with poor records may cost more than a clean SME file. This is why the average price for corporate tax return UK figures often differ between businesses with similar turnover.

Key UK pricing insight:

Online accountants usually sit closer to the national average price for corporate tax return, while local firms charge more due to in-person overheads and bespoke advisory time. There’s no single “best” option—the correct path is determined by how complicated your financial and compliance situation is.

Online vs Local Accountant — Cost Positioning (UK)

Online accountants

Tend to offer fixed pricing aligned with the average price for corporate tax return, ideal for digitally organised companies using cloud bookkeeping.

Local accountants

Often exceed the average price for corporate tax return due to face-to-face support, but may add value for businesses needing hands-on guidance or HMRC dispute support.

Why Prices Rise From Basic to Complex Returns

As returns move from basic to complex, accountants take on more HMRC exposure. This explains why the average price for corporate tax return increases sharply once VAT, payroll, or corrections to prior filings are involved. These are not “add-ons”—they materially change the work required.

 

What determines the cost of a company’s tax return?

The average price for corporate tax return services in the UK is shaped by business complexity, compliance risk, and record quality. Factors such as turnover, transaction volume, VAT status, payroll, dividends, director loans, and past HMRC issues directly influence how much professional work and liability an accountant takes on.

Core Elements That Influence the Average Price for Corporate Tax Return (UK)

UK accountants assess the following risk-and-effort indicators when calculating the average price for corporate tax return services. Each factor adds review time, technical responsibility, or HMRC exposure.

Turnover Size

Turnover acts as a complexity signal rather than a pricing rule. As revenue grows, so does HMRC attention, disclosure requirements, and reconciliation work. This is why higher-turnover companies often exceed the base average price for corporate tax return UK, even with tidy records.

Transaction Volume

A business processing frequent sales, refunds, or expenses requires more detailed checking. High transaction volume increases the chance of inconsistencies, which raises the review workload and impacts the average price for corporate tax return charged.

VAT Registration Status

VAT registration introduces an additional compliance layer. Accountants must ensure VAT returns align precisely with annual accounts and the CT600. Any discrepancy increases HMRC risk, pushing the average price for corporate tax return UK beyond entry-level fees.

Payroll Obligations

Payroll brings Real Time Information (RTI), PAYE, and NIC alignment into scope. Even director-only payroll requires verification against accounts. This added responsibility is a common reason the average price for corporate tax return rises above basic rates.

What influences the fees for preparing a corporate tax return?

In the UK, the average price for corporate tax return services depends on business complexity and compliance risks. Key factors include company turnover, transaction volume, VAT registration, payroll, dividends, director loans, and previous HMRC issues. Each adds time, accountability, and professional responsibility, affecting final costs.

Primary Drivers of the Average Price for Corporate Tax Return (UK)

Accountants set fees based on complexity, risk exposure, and workload rather than a flat rate. Understanding these factors helps directors anticipate the average price for corporate tax return and avoid unexpected charges.

Turnover Levels

Higher turnover usually means more transactions, additional disclosures, and stricter HMRC scrutiny. This naturally increases the average price for corporate tax return UK, even if the underlying accounting records are well maintained.

Volume of Transactions

A company processing numerous invoices, receipts, or payments requires more detailed checking. High transaction counts create extra review work, which impacts the average price for corporate tax return charged by accountants.

VAT Registration

VAT introduces a compliance layer that must match statutory accounts and CT600 submissions. Errors or omissions in VAT reconciliation increase HMRC exposure, pushing the average price for corporate tax return UK higher than non-VAT businesses.

Payroll Obligations

Handling salaries—even for a single director—requires accurate PAYE, NIC, and RTI alignment. Companies with payroll responsibilities usually pay above the baseline average price for corporate tax return, reflecting added review time.

Dividends

Dividends must be properly declared, supported by distributable reserves, and timed correctly. Mistakes trigger HMRC enquiries, meaning companies distributing dividends face higher average price for corporate tax return fees.

Director Loan Accounts

Overdrawn director loans are a common HMRC concern. Calculations for Section 455 tax and detailed reconciliations are required, often increasing the average price for corporate tax return UK for companies with these balances.

Previous HMRC Compliance Issues

Late filings, penalties, or past enquiries increase risk. Accountants must conduct extra checks and maintain comprehensive documentation, which raises the average price for corporate tax return compared to companies with clean histories.

Why These Factors Matter 

The average price for corporate tax return reflects not just form completion, but professional responsibility. More complexity and HMRC exposure translate to higher fees, ensuring your company remains compliant and avoids costly mistakes.

 

Corporate Tax Return Costs by Business Type (UK)

The average price for corporate tax return in the UK varies according to business type, complexity, and HMRC risk. Dormant companies are the cheapest, while e-commerce firms, property companies, and fast-growing startups face higher fees due to additional reporting, payroll, VAT, and advisory requirements.

Understanding Costs by Business Type

The average price for corporate tax return UK is not universal—it depends heavily on the nature of your business. Here’s a narrative breakdown of typical UK scenarios:

1. Dormant Companies

For truly inactive companies, accountants focus solely on statutory accounts and CT600 submission. The workload is minimal, which keeps the average price for corporate tax return low. Most dormant company returns in the UK cost between £200–£400.

2. Small Limited Companies

Standard small businesses with a director’s salary and dividends fall into the mid-range of the market. Routine expenses and uncomplicated accounts mean the average price for corporate tax return sits around £500–£1,000, reflecting typical UK compliance needs.

3. E-commerce Businesses

Online stores with multiple transactions, digital platforms, and VAT obligations introduce complexity. Accountants must reconcile sales, platforms, and fees accurately, which pushes the average price for corporate tax return to roughly £800–£1,600.

4. ontractors & Consultants

Freelancers or contractors usually have simple income streams but may include PAYE, director salaries, or dividends. Typical UK fees are £600–£1,200, aligning with the average price for corporate tax return UK for standard small business accounts.

5. Property Companies

Managing rental income across multiple properties requires tracking expenses, depreciation, and potential capital gains. The average price for corporate tax return rises to £1,200–£2,000, reflecting the extra review and HMRC risk.

6. Fast-Growing Startups

Startups scaling rapidly often combine payroll, VAT, investor funding, R&D claims, and multiple revenue streams. This is high-complexity territory. Accountants provide both filing and advisory services, with the average price for corporate tax return UK ranging from £1,500–£2,500+.

Mini Case Comparison

Insight: This format shows clearly how the average price for corporate tax return scales with complexity. Even companies of similar size can have different fees depending on trading activity, HMRC exposure, and reporting requirements.

What does the base price include, and what usually falls outside of it?

The average price for corporate tax return services in the UK usually covers CT600 preparation and HMRC filing, but not everything a company may need. Many low-cost providers exclude essential reviews, adjustments, and HMRC support, which later appear as extra charges.

 Included in the Average Price for Corporate Tax Return (UK)

When you pay the average price for corporate tax return, reputable UK accountants normally include the following core services as standard:

CT600 preparation and submission

Accurate completion of the corporate tax return in HMRC-approved format.

Corporation tax calculation

Correct computation of Corporation Tax liability based on submitted accounts.

Statutory accounts alignment

Ensuring figures in the CT600 match the final statutory accounts.

Basic compliance checks

Reviewing totals, disclosures, and consistency to reduce HMRC errors.

HMRC online filing confirmation

Secure submission and proof that your corporate tax return has been filed correctly.

These elements form the foundation of the average price for corporate tax return UK, ensuring legal compliance rather than just form completion.

 Common Hidden Extras Many Competitors Ignore

Many advertised “cheap” packages fall below the true average price for corporate tax return because they exclude essential work. Common add-ons include:

Bookkeeping corrections or reconciliations

Charged separately if records are incomplete or inconsistent.

VAT or payroll alignment checks

Often excluded, despite being critical for HMRC accuracy.

Director loan account reviews

Frequently billed as an extra due to Section 455 risk.

Dividend legality checks

Additional fees apply if reserves must be reviewed or adjusted.

HMRC queries or follow-up correspondence

Almost never included in low-cost pricing.These exclusions explain why offers below the average price for corporate tax return UK often escalate in cost later.

 HMRC Filing Clarity — What You Are Actually Paying For

The average price for corporate tax return is not simply a submission fee. It reflects professional responsibility for accuracy, HMRC compliance, and legal risk. Accountants are accountable if figures are challenged, which is why properly priced services include review, validation, and secure filing.

Key takeaway: If a quote seems far cheaper than the UK average price for corporate tax return, it likely excludes work that HMRC still expects to be correct.

Is a Cheap Corporate Tax Return Worth the Risk?

A very cheap corporate tax return often costs more in the long run. While £99–£150 services may look attractive, they usually exclude reviews, HMRC safeguards, and tax accuracy checks. The average price for corporate tax return services reflects risk protection, not just form submission.

Risk vs Value — Corporate Tax Return Pricing Compared (UK)

What This Means in Practice

The average price for corporate tax return services sits in the mid-range for a reason. Accountants at this level actively reduce HMRC exposure, catch errors before submission, and ensure figures are defensible if queried. Ultra-cheap services often fall below the UK average price for corporate tax return because responsibility is shifted back to the director.

Reality check: HMRC penalties, amendments, or enquiries can cost far more than the saving made by avoiding the average price for corporate tax return UK.

Online Accountants vs Local Firms — Price Comparison

Online accountants usually charge closer to the average price for corporate tax return, while local firms often cost more due to overheads and in-person support. The best option for you comes down to three things: how easy it is to get support, the depth of guidance you’re looking for, and your confidence in meeting all regulations.

Online vs Local — Cost & Value Grid (UK)

What This Means in Practice

The average price for corporate tax return services sits in the mid-range for a reason. Accountants at this level actively reduce HMRC exposure, catch errors before submission, and ensure figures are defensible if queried. Ultra-cheap services often fall below the UK average price for corporate tax return because responsibility is shifted back to the director.

Reality check: HMRC penalties, amendments, or enquiries can cost far more than the saving made by avoiding the average price for corporate tax return UK.

Is a Cheap Corporate Tax Return Worth the Risk?

In most UK cases, a very cheap corporate tax return increases HMRC risk rather than reducing costs. Services priced far below the average price for corporate tax return usually limit review, accountability, and error checking, leaving directors exposed to penalties or amendments.

Corporate Tax Return Pricing — Risk vs Value Analysis (UK)

Why Cheap Fees Often Fall Below the UK Average

The average price for corporate tax return reflects the time required to validate figures, reconcile accounts, and ensure the CT600 can withstand HMRC scrutiny. Budget services often reduce fees by excluding these safeguards. That is why prices far below the average price for corporate tax return UK usually shift responsibility back to the director.

Director insight: Saving £300 upfront can cost thousands later if HMRC identifies inaccuracies or omissions.

The Smart Cost Threshold

For most UK limited companies, staying close to the average price for corporate tax return delivers the best balance between affordability and compliance confidence. Premium services only become necessary when complexity or risk justifies them.

How to Reduce Your Corporate Tax Return Cost (Legally)

UK limited companies can legally reduce the average price for corporate tax return by improving records, planning earlier, and consolidating services—without increasing HMRC risk. Cost reduction comes from efficiency, not shortcuts.

Step-Based Cost Optimisation Guide (UK Directors)

Step 1 — Clean Bookkeeping Before Year-End
Messy records are one of the biggest reasons accountants charge above the average price for corporate tax return UK. When expenses are miscategorised or reconciliations are incomplete, professionals must spend additional time correcting data. Clean bookkeeping lowers billable hours and keeps fees closer to the UK average.

Step 2 — Maintain Fully Digital Records
Using cloud software such as Xero or FreeAgent allows accountants to access data instantly, reducing manual processing. Companies with digital records consistently pay closer to the average price for corporate tax return, as automation replaces admin-heavy tasks.

Step 3 — Apply Year-Round Tax Planning
Last-minute tax work increases risk and cost. Proactive planning allows reliefs, allowances, and timing strategies to be applied gradually. This keeps the average price for corporate tax return UK stable while improving tax efficiency.

Step 4 — Use One Firm Instead of Multiple Providers
Splitting bookkeeping, payroll, and tax across different providers often leads to duplicated work and higher combined fees. A single firm can streamline processes, reducing the final cost while staying within the average price for corporate tax return range.

Key Insight: Legal cost reduction is about reducing friction—not reducing professional responsibility.

Real UK Example — What a Small Ltd Company Actually Paid

A small UK limited company reduced HMRC risk and stayed close to the average price for corporate tax return by consolidating services and planning early. The result was predictable fees and measurable tax savings.

Mini Case Study 

Business Profile
A UK-based service company operating as a private limited company with straightforward transactions and no overseas income.

Turnover Range
£85,000–£120,000 annually

Final Accountant Fee
£750 for accounts preparation and CT600 filing—aligned with the average price for corporate tax return UK for this turnover level.

Tax Savings Achieved
Through timing of expenses and correct capital allowance claims, the company reduced its corporation tax liability by over £2,000 without aggressive planning.

HMRC Risk Avoided
Full reconciliations, supporting schedules, and professional review ensured the return was defensible, keeping the company well protected despite paying only the average price for corporate tax return.

Expert takeaway: Paying the average does not mean receiving average protection—when the process is done correctly.

What This Example Proves

The average price for corporate tax return UK is not a compromise; it is often the optimal balance between cost, compliance, and peace of mind. Companies that organise early and work with one competent firm rarely need to pay more.

Quick Answers — Average Price for Corporate Tax Return (UK)

1. What is the average price for corporate tax return UK businesses pay?
   The average price for corporate tax return UK companies pay typically ranges between £600 and £1,500. The final cost depends on company size, transaction volume, bookkeeping quality, and whether tax planning or advisory support is included.
2. Why does the average price for corporate tax return vary so much?
   The average price for corporate tax return UK firms quote changes based on complexity. Dormant companies sit at the lower end, while VAT-registered or multi-income companies require more work, increasing professional fees.
3. Is a low corporate tax return price risky?
   Very low prices often exclude reviews, reconciliations, or HMRC risk checks. While the average price for corporate tax return covers compliance properly, ultra-cheap services may increase enquiry risk.
4. Does online filing reduce the average price?
   Digital records and cloud accounting often reduce preparation time, helping companies stay closer to the average price for corporate tax return UK accountants charge.
5. Are CT600 and accounts included in the average price?
   In most cases, yes. The average price for corporate tax return usually includes statutory accounts and CT600 filing, but confirmation is essential.
6. Can tax planning affect the final price?
   Yes. Proactive planning may slightly increase fees but often reduces overall tax liability, improving value beyond the average price for corporate tax return.
7. Is the average price fixed each year?
   No. Fees may rise if turnover, transactions, or HMRC requirements increase.

Voice Search FAQs (HMRC-Focused)

How much does a corporate tax return cost in the UK?
Most UK companies pay between £600 and £1,500, which reflects the average price for corporate tax return based on HMRC compliance requirements.

Do I need an accountant for CT600?
Legally no, but HMRC expects accuracy. Most directors use accountants to reduce errors and manage risk within the average price for corporate tax return UK standards.

Can I prepare and submit my own company tax return?

Technically, yes, but errors frequently occur without professional guidance.Many directors choose professional help to avoid penalties, even if it means paying the average price for corporate tax return.

What happens if my CT600 is wrong?
HMRC may open an enquiry, issue penalties, or charge interest—often costing more than the average price for corporate tax return.

Is filing a tax return cheaper for a dormant company?

 Yes. Dormant companies usually fall well below the average price for corporate tax return UK active businesses pay.

Does HMRC charge for filing?
No. HMRC does not charge filing fees, but professional preparation is not free.

How much time does it usually take to complete a corporate tax return?

 Most returns are completed within 2–4 weeks, depending on records and complexity.

Are penalties avoidable with an accountant?
While not guaranteed, accurate filing significantly reduces risk.

Does turnover affect the price?
Yes. Higher turnover usually increases work involved, impacting the average price for corporate tax return.

Is tax advice included in CT600 fees?
Only with advisory-led services; basic filing usually excludes planning.

Why UK Businesses Choose Eternity Accountants

Proven Experience
Eternity Accountants support UK limited companies ,across multiple sectors, delivering accurate filings aligned with HMRC expectations and the average price for corporate tax return UK benchmarks.

UK-Specific Expertise
Every return is prepared with up-to-date UK corporation tax rules, ensuring reliefs, allowances, and deadlines are applied correctly.

Transparent Pricing
No hidden charges. Clients know exactly what is included before engagement, avoiding surprises beyond, the average price for corporate tax return.

Compliance Plus Growth Focus
Beyond filing, Eternity Accountants help directors, make informed decisions that protect compliance while supporting long-term growth.

CTA —

Get an Accurate Corporate Tax Return Quote

Corporation tax mistakes are costly—but avoidable.
Secure a definite, upfront quote that reflects your actual business activity, removing any guesswork. Protect your company, meet HMRC standards, and stay within the average price for corporate tax return UK directors expect.

Speak to a UK corporation tax specialist ,today and secure your compliant filing before deadlines tighten.

Final Summary — What You Should Expect to Pay

• The average price for corporate tax return UK, companies pay typically falls between £600 and £1,500
• Costs rise with complexity, not company size alone
• Very cheap services increase HMRC risk
• Transparent pricing and proper review matter more than headline cost
• Professional filing usually saves more than it costs over time

Bottom line: Paying the average price for corporate tax return is not an expense—it’s protection.