Guide to Authorising Tax Agents: Understanding Your Options for Representation

HMRC has published guidance on the process of appointing a paid agent to handle tax matters on your behalf. The authorisation method varies depending on the type of tax involved, with businesses able to use either the paper form 64-8 or HMRC’s online services to grant their representative the necessary powers to act in their tax affairs.

Source: HMRC (GOV.UK) – Read the original

HMRC updates list of approved software providers for online Company Tax Return filing

HMRC has published guidance identifying recognised commercial software suppliers whose systems are compatible for filing Company Tax Returns and supplementary pages online. The guidance helps businesses and accountants select certified software solutions that meet HMRC’s technical requirements for digital tax submissions. This resource applies to all companies required to file Corporation Tax returns electronically with HMRC.

Source: HMRC (GOV.UK) – Read the original

Country codes now available for Customs Declaration Service

HMRC has published the official country codes required for submitting declarations through the Customs Declaration Service, listed in Appendix 13 of the guidance. These standardised codes must be used by importers, exporters and customs agents when completing customs declarations to ensure accurate processing. The codes apply to all countries and territories involved in cross-border trade transactions.

Source: HMRC (GOV.UK) – Read the original

HMRC publishes currency codes for Customs Declaration Service data element 4/10

HMRC has released guidance setting out the currency codes required for Data Element 4/10 within the Customs Declaration Service framework. The codes are detailed in Appendix 11 of the guidance and must be used by traders and customs intermediaries when submitting declarations involving currency-related information. This resource ensures compliance with the standardised data requirements for customs submissions.

Source: HMRC (GOV.UK) – Read the original

Plastic Packaging Tax Register service status and availability updates

HMRC has published guidance detailing the current operational status of the Register for Plastic Packaging Tax service, including information about any technical issues or access problems that may affect users. The guidance allows businesses to check whether the service is available and identify any disruptions before attempting to submit registrations or updates. Users can refer to this resource to understand service availability in real-time.

Source: HMRC (GOV.UK) – Read the original

Capital Gains Tax UK Property Service Status and Updates

HMRC has published guidance on the availability status of its online service for reporting and paying Capital Gains Tax related to UK property disposals. The guidance allows users to check whether the service is currently operational and alerts them to any technical issues or planned maintenance that may affect their ability to submit returns.

Source: HMRC (GOV.UK) – Read the original

HMRC Releases Step-by-Step Guide for UK Trade Tariff CDS Volume 3 Declarations

HMRC has published a comprehensive manual guiding users through the UK Trade Tariff Volume 3 for Customs Declaration Service submissions. The guide covers locating tariff content, the correct sequence for using CDS Volume 3 when preparing declarations, and detailed instructions for completing customs declarations and clearance requests. The manual also includes guidance on interpreting CDS error messages and their resolution, with users advised to follow all steps in the specified order to ensure valid declarations and avoid system errors.

Source: HMRC (GOV.UK) – Read the original

Northern Ireland Updates Rules on Occupational Pension Benefit Preservation

The 2026 amendment regulations modify the existing 1991 framework governing how occupational pension schemes in Northern Ireland must preserve member benefits. These changes affect pension scheme administrators and employers operating defined benefit or defined contribution pension arrangements in the region. The amendment updates specific provisions within the preservation of benefit rules that pension schemes must comply with when managing member entitlements.

Source: legislation.gov.uk – Read the original

VAT relief guidance on input tax claims for funded pension schemes

HMRC has published guidance on how employers and pension scheme trustees can claim input tax relief on expenditure relating to funded pension schemes. The notice clarifies the VAT treatment of various costs associated with managing and operating pension arrangements, enabling businesses to understand their entitlements to recover VAT on eligible pension-related spending.

Source: HMRC (GOV.UK) – Read the original

HMRC publishes list of approved Self Assessment software suppliers for tax returns and attachments

HMRC has released guidance identifying commercial software suppliers that can be used to prepare and submit Self Assessment tax returns, supplementary pages and supporting attachments. The list helps taxpayers and agents locate compliant software solutions for meeting their Self Assessment filing obligations. This resource is intended to direct users towards software providers that meet HMRC’s technical standards and compatibility requirements.

Source: HMRC (GOV.UK) – Read the original