The Ftax team are working on a low-cost ITSA solution to be launched April 2026. Contact us for further information.
Frequently Asked Questions
Popular FAQS
- Why can't I find the 'Highlight Fields' button to the right of the purple Reader bar?
Recent editions of Adobe Reader do not feature this button (or the purple bar referred to).
Instead, please select Edit -> Preferences -> Forms and untick the 'Show border hover color for fields' check box.
This will ensure that any fields highlighted in yellow by the Ftax form, are visible.
- AVG or Avast is stopping me downloading or opening the pdf file
It appears that AVG and Avast are incorrectly identifying some Ftax pdfs as malicious (reporting code JS:Pdfka-gen [Expl]).
Below is a brief description of the situation followed by steps you may wish to take to continue using Ftax.
We routinely scan all our files internally and have identified no problems.
We have submitted affected files for further scans to http://www.virustotal.com (which is owned by google's parent company). This site aggregates the results of a wide range of different virus checkers and showed that only very small number of the 62 virus checkers it uses, identify the problem.
An example can be seen here:
We reported samples to the affected vendors as false positives. One of the vendors has already responded stating that the detection was incorrect (AVG) and that they will be updating their software as a matter of urgency. We expect the others to follow suit.
If you are affected, and you wish to stop the behaviour, you can exclude specific websites and files from being scanned.
For example, AVG users
For example, Avast users
https://support.avast.com/en-gb/article/Antivirus-scan-exclusions/
We would also encourage you to add the pdf file to your Quarantine/Virus Chest and submit it as a false positive to AVG/Avast Threat Labs from there
For example, AVG users
https://support.avg.com/SupportArticleView?l=en&urlName=Use-AVG-Quarantine&supportType=home
For example, Avast users
- Why is Acrobat Reader slow or Not Responding?
There appears to be a problem with the latest versions of Acrobat Reader 2021.001.20135 and 2021.001.20138 which causes Ftax forms to run slowly at times, or not to respond.
If you install a previous version of Acrobat Reader, this problem will be overcome.To install a previous version (Windows users):
First, uninstall your current version of Acrobat Reader.
1. Click the start menu and right click Acrobat Reader DC.
2. From the menu that pops up, select Uninstall to access the Programs and Features control panel.
3. Select Adobe Acrobat Reader DC from the list of programs and click Uninstall from the top to start the uninstall process.
4. Follow the windows prompts until the software uninstalls.
Second, Download and install a previous version of Acrobat Reader from Adobe.
1. Open a Windows Explorer/File Explorer window (press Win+E).
2. Click to select the Address bar.
If the Address bar isn't visible in Windows XP, choose View > Address Bar3. In the address bar type the address of Adobe's software storage:
ftp://ftp.adobe.com/pub/adobe/reader/win/
for windows, or
ftp://ftp.adobe.com/pub/adobe/reader/mac/
for mac, and press enter.
Note: This is a Windows Explorer/File Explorer window not a browser window.
4. You should be presented with a file structure of previous versions of Reader.
We have identified that the problem does not occur if you use AcrobatDC 2001320064.
If you wish to download and install this version, open the ReaderDC folder, then open the 2001320064 folder and copy the file AcroRdrDC2001320064_en_US.exe to your computer by dragging it onto your desktop (or other location). This is the english language version, other versions are available.
5. Once the file is downloaded onto your computer, double click the file to start the installation, and follow the Adobe prompts.
Don't forget, you will need to follow the setup checklist again with your new software:
What should I check before using Ftax? (Ftax Setup Checklist)
If Acrobat Reader updates to the latest version and Adobe have not fixed this problem, you will need to follow this process again.
If you have any problems uninstalling Acrobat Reader, Adobe have produced a tool called AcroCleaner to help:
https://www.adobe.com/devnet-docs/acrobatetk/tools/Labs/cleaner.html
- Why won't the Ftax form accept my new HMRC password?
HMRC have recently changed their specification to accept a wide range of non-alphanumeric characters, and a password length of greater than 12 characters.
Ftax are in the process of updating their forms to the same HMRC specification. We expect to have this work completed by April 2021, ready for the new tax year's forms.
In the meantime, please ensure that your HMRC password contains only alphanumerics and is no longer than 12 characters. To change this, you need to use your HMRC account.
- When I submit, the error message 'You appear not to be logged into your Ftax Account' is returned. What should I do?
Click the '?' in a red ball, select the bottom option, and log into your Ftax Account again.
Then, clear the UTR and enter it again to ensure a credit has been allocated and a tick appears to the right of the UTR.
Then submit again.
- How can I start or stop Adobe Acrobat Reader DC automatically updating?
Adobe Reader is setup to automatically update periodically when you are connected to the internet. There is no preference within Reader which allows you to change this behaviour.
If you wish to, one way to stop the updates for Windows10, is:
1. Click the Windows Search box (the question mark) and type 'services' then click the Services App to open it.
2. Right-click the 'Adobe Acrobat Update Service' in the right hand pane of the app and select 'Properties' from the menu that appears.
3. On the 'General' tab, change the 'Startup type' to 'Disabled', then click 'Apply'.
4 Still on the 'General' tab, click the 'Stop' button to stop the service.
5. Click 'OK' to close the dialogue box then close the 'Services' app (click the X in the top right).
To re-start the automatic updates for Windows10, the process similar:
- Click the Windows Search box (the question mark) and type 'services' then click the Services App to open it.
- Right-click the 'Adobe Acrobat Update Service' in the right hand pane of the app and select 'Properties' from the menu that appears.
- On the 'General' tab, change the 'Startup type' to 'Automatic', then click 'Apply'.
- Still on the 'General' tab, click the 'Start' button to stop the service.
- Click 'OK' to close the dialogue box then close the 'Services' app (click the X in the top right).
- I cannot login to my Ftax Account. What should do?
== You must login using your email address and password ==
== Your email is your username ==
If you have forgotten your password, click 'Forgot Password' on the log-in screen and follow the on screen prompts.
If you have opened an Ftax form and have previously saved your login details on your computer, these may no longer work and the form will show:
If you know your email address registered with your Ftax account, you can simply ignore this (Click OK) and log the form into your Ftax account using your email address and existing password.
You can access the login box at any time from a form by clicking the red question mark on the front page and selecting Ftax Account Login.
If you don't know what email address you have registered with your Ftax account, you can recover your account by accessing the Ftax website at www.ftax.co.uk and clicking LOGIN in the top right hand corner. From the login screen select "recover your account" to access the "Forgot Email" box. Follow the instructions and an email reminder will be sent to your registered email address.
If you don't have an email address registered with your Ftax account, or you no longer have access to your registered email account, you can recover your account by accessing the Ftax website at www.ftax.co.uk and clicking LOGIN in the top right hand corner. From the login screen select "recover your account" to access the "Forgot Email" box. Follow the instructions to send an email reminder then click 'I did not receive the email' on the website to be re-directed to a 'Reset Unknown Account' form. Complete this form and we will be in touch with you.
If you experience a problem using the automated password/username recovery system (described above) then please send an email to support@ftax.co.uk which includes the email address used when registering with Ftax, or/and your Ftax Account username. The Ftax Support team can then manually recover your Ftax Account logon details.
If you are experiencing problems when logging into you Ftax Account from an Ftax form, by clicking the '?' in a red ball on the opening page and select the bottom option, then run through the Ftax Setup Checklist either via the FAQ or via the video. If your Ftax Account password contains any character other than alphanumerics or the following characters '@ . ! $ % * ? _ - +', then login to your Ftax Account on the website, go to Account Details, and change the password.
Warning: be careful not to confuse your Ftax Account username and password with you HMRC Gateway User ID and Password.
- I have received a ‘Government Gateway log-in failure’ error message when submitting. What should I do?
The full error message reads:
Government Gateway log-in failure, please check your User ID, UTR and Gateway password are correct. You can check your User ID and password are valid by logging into the Inland Revenue portal at https://online.hmrc.gov.uk/home. If you view your statement after logging in you will also see confirmation of your UTR.
This error message is always correct and is caused by an error in the entry of the User ID, Password, or UTR on the front page of the Ftax form. Common mistakes include entering an inappropriate UTR, e.g. the Partnership UTR instead of the Individual UTR. Characters are sometimes entered incorrectly, e.g. an ‘l’ can be entered instead of an ‘1’, or an ‘S’ entered instead of a ‘5’. Please check very carefully. Also check that your Password has been activated using the PIN sent to you in the post by Government Gateway when you first registered for online filing.
- What should I check before using Ftax? (Ftax Setup Checklist)
After downloading the latest Ftax form, saving it to a known location, and opening in a recent version of Adobe Reader, the following must be carried out before completing the Ftax return:
1. Comply with the Special Notice
This should be automatically displayed when an Ftax form is first opened in Adobe Reader. It may be redisplayed at anytime by clicking the ‘?’ in a red ball on the opening page of the Ftax form and selecting the top option. This reads:
- Select ‘EditPreferencesJavascript’ from the Reader menu bar
(Mac users should select ‘Adobe ReaderPreferencesJavascript’). - Make sure the top box ‘Enable Acrobat Javascript’ IS ticked, the next 2 boxes are NOT ticked, and the bottom box IS ticked.
- Then select ‘EditPreferencesSecurity (Enhanced)’, and untick the ‘Enable enhanced security’ box
(Mac users should select ‘EditPreferencesSecurity (Enhanced)’).
2. Login to your Ftax Account from the form
The Ftax Account Login popup should be automatically displayed when the ‘Continue’ button is clicked (twice) on the Special Notice. This can also be displayed at anytime by clicking the ‘?’ in a red ball and selecting the bottom option.
Make sure the ‘Do NOT login to my Ftax Account’ box is unticked, and enter your Ftax Account Username and Password before clicking ‘Login’. You are also advised to first tick the ‘Save login details on computer’ box so that you remain automatically logged in.
Note: - Do not confuse your Ftax Account Username and Password with the Gateway User ID and Password.
On clicking ‘Login’ a popup should confirm ‘Login Success’. The number of remaining credits should also be displayed towards the bottom left of the Ftax form. If the popup displays the following error messages then please do as advised:
‘Communication Problem’ – This may be due to you not having Internet access, but is more likely to be due to the ‘Enhanced Security’ box still being ticked in the Adobe Reader Preferences. Please return to step 1. and correct.
‘SOAPservice not recognised …’ – This may also be due to lack of Internet access, or the Special Notice not being fully complied with as described above. But it may also be due your computer not trusting www.ftax.co.uk. Please go to Edit/Preferences/Trust Manager (or Adobe Reader/Preferences/Trust Manager if on a Mac), click ‘Change Settings’, and ensure the ftax.co.uk is trusted. Also check that any security software you may be using is not blocking access to the Ftax website. If the problem persists then try reinstalling Adobe Reader, or turn your security software off while using Ftax. If you successfully login to your Ftax Account from the form and then have a subsequent problem that requires support, be sure to tell Ftax support that you have successfully logged in.
3. Allocate a credit to the UTR
When a new UTR is entered then a popup should prompt you to ‘allocate a credit’. Another popup will confirm when the credit has been allocated. At this point a ‘credit code’ will be automatically transferred allowing the form to Calculate and Submit. If you enter a UTR that already has a credit allocated then you will be allowed to continue without allocating another credit.
If, when you enter a UTR, a popup asks you to enter a ‘4 digit credit code’ then you are not logged in to your Ftax Account. In this case please return to step 2. and login.
Important Notice: While the ‘enable enhanced security’ box is unticked you are advised not to open pdf attachments emailed from unknown addresses (emails from ftax.co.uk will be ok). You are advised to leave the ‘enable enhanced security’ box ticked when you are not using Ftax.
- Select ‘EditPreferencesJavascript’ from the Reader menu bar
- New (April 2023) Class 2 NIC Rules
The rules for Class 2 NIC have changed for the 2023/23 tax year onwards.
Prior to the 2022/23 tax year you needed to pay Class 2 NIC if your profits were above the Small Profits Threshold, which was £6,515 in the 2021/22 tax year.
For 2022/23 onwards, you pay Class 2 NIC if your profits are above the Lower Profits Limit,(which is £11,908 in 2022/23). If your profits are below the Small Profits Threshold (£6,725 in 2022/23) then you can choose to pay voluntary Class 2 NIC. If your profits from self-employment are between the Small Profits Threshold and the Lower Profits Limit then there is no Class 2 NIC to pay – instead you will be treated as making Class 2 NIC. This will mean you will be able to access entitlement to contributory benefits in the same way as if you had paid Class 2 NIC.
For 2023/24 onwards, the Lower Profits Limit will be the same amount as the personal allowance for income tax.Further information on this is available from the Government website here:
https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/rates-and-allowances-national-insurance-contributions/rates-and-allowances-national-insurance-contributions
Making Tax Digital
- Who will HMRC require to use MTD Income Tax Self Assessment (ITSA) and when?
Businesses, self-employed people and landlords will be required:
- to operate MTD from 6 April 2026 in relation to their trading and property income chargeable to Income Tax and Class 4 National Insurance contributions, if their total qualifying income from these income sources for a tax year exceeds £50,000
- to operate MTD from 6 April 2027 in relation to their trading and property income chargeable to Income Tax and Class 4 National Insurance contributions, if their total qualifying income from these income sources for a tax year exceeds £30,000
They will:
- keep their records digitally
- provide digital quarterly updates
- be able to provide their ITSA return information to HMRC through MTD compatible software
- Will Ftax be offering an MTD ITSA service?
Yes.
The Ftax team are working on a low-cost MTD ITSA solution that is fully compliant with HMRC requirements. We are trying to make this as simple and clear as possible. We will make it easy for clients to exchange income and expense data with their agents, and also make it easy for the self-employed and landlords to file their own returns using ITSA.
If you have any questions or suggestions then please contact us.
We appreciate your feedback as it will help us design a service that meets your needs.
Features/Requirements
- How can I start or stop Adobe Acrobat Reader DC automatically updating?
Adobe Reader is setup to automatically update periodically when you are connected to the internet. There is no preference within Reader which allows you to change this behaviour.
If you wish to, one way to stop the updates for Windows10, is:
1. Click the Windows Search box (the question mark) and type 'services' then click the Services App to open it.
2. Right-click the 'Adobe Acrobat Update Service' in the right hand pane of the app and select 'Properties' from the menu that appears.
3. On the 'General' tab, change the 'Startup type' to 'Disabled', then click 'Apply'.
4 Still on the 'General' tab, click the 'Stop' button to stop the service.
5. Click 'OK' to close the dialogue box then close the 'Services' app (click the X in the top right).
To re-start the automatic updates for Windows10, the process similar:
- Click the Windows Search box (the question mark) and type 'services' then click the Services App to open it.
- Right-click the 'Adobe Acrobat Update Service' in the right hand pane of the app and select 'Properties' from the menu that appears.
- On the 'General' tab, change the 'Startup type' to 'Automatic', then click 'Apply'.
- Still on the 'General' tab, click the 'Start' button to stop the service.
- Click 'OK' to close the dialogue box then close the 'Services' app (click the X in the top right).
- Can I email technical support like I used to?
We are not removing our old technical support email address immediately and if you do email us we will get help to you.
However, email is not a secure means of communicating and you should not send any personal information via email (for example, a completed tax form).
We also can't guarantee the speed with which we will respond to your email.
Submitting a Support Request via this new support website is the fastest and most secure way to get help.
- Can I install Ftax on more than one computer?
Yes, providing the licensing conditions of the Ftax package you have purchased permit this.
Ftax is a very intelligent pdf file which can be copied, moved, and renamed in the same way that any other file can.
This means that you can transfer a copy to another computer using a memory stick. Alternatively, you can simply download Ftax again from your Ftax Account to another computer.
- How can I delete my data that you hold?
If you wish to delete your data that we hold, please raise a support ticket asking us to do so.
We will contact you to confirm the request is legitimate before actually deleting your data.
We will also confirm what data you wish us to delete.
We will also give you the opportunity to receive a portable copy of your data if you wish.Once deleted, your data will no longer be held by us, and we will not be able to recover it.
Please note that deleting some or all of your data will not remove your ftax account.
If you wish us to remove your entire Ftax Account, please ask us in your support request.
- How can I view a demonstration version of Ftax?
The best way to see Ftax in action is to look through some of our videos on this site:
- How do I login to my Ftax Account from an Ftax PDF form?
The Ftax PDF forms need to communicate with your Ftax Account to manage your data and your credits.
You must now login using your email address and password - your email is your username.
Click on the ‘?’ in a red ball, select the bottom option, and untick the box in the popup.
Enter your Ftax Account Username and Password and click ‘Login’.
If you also tick the ‘Save login details on computer’ box then the Ftax form will automatically login to your Ftax Account when it needs to.
If you have any problems please take a look at the FAQ: I cannot login to my Ftax Account. What should do?
- What is the Ftax 'Special Notice'?
The Ftax 'Special Notice' must be complied with to enable Ftax forms to submit online.
Select 'Edit/Preferences/Security (Enhanced)' from the Adobe Reader menu bar and untick the 'enable enhanced security' box. If you are using a Mac, please select ‘Adobe Reader/Edit/Preferences/ etc.’.
Also select 'Edit/Preferences/Javascript' from the Adobe Reader menu bar and ensure the boxes are ticked, unticked, unticked, and ticked.
Important Notice: While the ‘enable enhanced security’ box is unticked you are advised not to open pdf attachments emailed from unknown addresses (emails from ftax.co.uk will be ok). You may wish to leave the ‘enable enhanced security’ box ticked when you are not using Ftax.
- What software do I need to use the PDF forms?
You will need to open the forms using Adobe's software (either Reader or Acrobat).
To download the latest version of Adobe's Reader, for free, follow this link: https://get.adobe.com/uk/reader/ .
Once you have the right software, you just need to make sure that you open the Ftax forms using that software:
1. Make sure that your browser saves the forms to your computer and doesn't try to open them.
You must check that the browser prompts you to ‘Save’ when downloading files.
In Chrome:
- Click on the 3 dots in the top right of your Chrome window and select Settings.
- Scroll to the bottom of the page and click on Advanced.
- In the Downloads section, click Clear next to Open certain file types automatically after downloading.
- This will clear all previous settings and will download files as the default action.
In Edge:
- Click on the 3 dots in the top right of your Edge window and select Settings.
- Select Downloads from the left hand menu and turn on Ask me what to do with each download.
In Firefox:
- select Tools/Options/General/Downloads from the menu bar, and tick ‘Show the Downloads window when downloading a file’.
In Safari:
- Click Preferences and untick ‘open safe files after downloading’.
- Also untick ‘Block Pop Up Windows’.
2. Make sure that your computer opens the saved forms using Adobe software.
Some computers may be set up to open pdf files using software other than Adobe software. There are many ways to change this behaviour, either by default, or for one time only.
One way to ensure you open the Ftax forms using Adobe software is to:
- Open the Adobe software (eg. Adobe Reader).
- From the File menu, select Open and navigate to the saved Ftax form.
- Click OK (or Open) to open the form.
3. Make sure Javascript is enabled.
If you open an Ftax form in Adobe software and see a notice on the front page prompting you to enable javascript, please navigate to the Preferences (from the Edit menu), select the Javascript category and make sure the 'Enable Acrobat JavaScript' tick box is ticked.
4. Unset Enhanced Security.
Select 'Edit/Preferences/Security (Enhanced)' from the Adobe Reader menu bar and untick the 'enable enhanced security' box. If you are using a Mac, please select ‘Adobe Reader/Edit/Preferences/ etc.’.
Important Notice: While the ‘enable enhanced security’ box is unticked you are advised not to open pdf attachments emailed from unknown addresses (emails from ftax.co.uk will be ok). You may wish to leave the ‘enable enhanced security’ box ticked when you are not using Ftax.
5. Re-open the Ftax Form.
Close the form (no need to save), and reopen it.
- How do I setup my browser to prompt me to save downloads?
Ftax forms must be opened in Adobe Reader.
It is important not to open them in a browser, or other software (such as Preview, on a Mac).
You must check that your browser prompts you to ‘Save’ when downloading files.
In Chrome:
- Click on the 3 dots in the top right of your Chrome window and select Settings.
- Scroll to the bottom of the page and click on Advanced.
- In the Downloads section, click Clear next to Open certain file types automatically after downloading.
- This will clear all previous settings and will download files as the default action.
In Edge:
- Click on the 3 dots in the top right of your Edge window and select Settings.
- Select Downloads from the left hand menu and turn on Ask me what to do with each download.
In Firefox:
- Select Tools/Options/General/Downloads from the menu bar, and tick ‘Show the Downloads window when downloading a file’.
In Safari:
- Click Preferences and untick ‘open safe files after downloading’.
- Also untick ‘Block Pop Up Windows’.
- Where can I obtain details on Ftax products and prices?
For details on the Ftax products go to About Ftax/ Ftax Editions & Prices on the Ftax website.
- Which operating systems will Ftax work on?
Ftax supports Windows 10 and macOS 10.13 (High Sierra) and later.
All Ftax forms work in Adobe Acrobat Reader DC.
Some clients report successfully using Ftax on Linux machines but this is not supported.
Recent browser versions are recommended. Ftax will not currently work on Tablets.
Note: if for any reason Ftax does not work on your computer then you will be refunded. Variations in computer platforms and local software and can sometime block Ftax operation, e.g. security software.
- Why do I need to change Acrobat or Reader's preferences?
There are a couple of situations where you may be prompted to change the preferences within Acrobat or Reader.
- You might be asked to disable the Javascript Global Object Security model. This only needs to be disabled if you are using two or more Ftax forms at the same time. You can disable it by finding it in the prefereneces...
- You might me asked to tell Acrobat or Reader to Trust one or more of our forms. This will allow them to connect securely to our servers. To do this, you will see a yellow bar across the top of the document with the text "Some features have been disabled to avoid potential security risks...". There will also be a drop down menu called "Options" on the right of the yellow bar. From this select Trust Always and the from will prompt to save.
- Why isn't my pdfcopy or iXBRL file emailed to me anymore?
As part of our ongoing security improvements and our response to the General Data Protection Regulations (GDPR), we have altered the way we deliver these files.
The files are still created by our servers, but now we need you to login to your Ftax Account and download them using your computer's browser.
The form has a new 'Download' button on the green receipt page that displays when you create the file:
Clicking the Download button will open your browser and take you to your ftax account homepage (you may need to log in en route).
From your account homepage, you will be able to download the most recently generated pdfcopy, iXBRL accounts or iXBRL computations files.
NOTE: We only retain the most recent of each type of file for you to download.
If you do not click the Download button on the form and you have received an email informimg you that your file has been created, you can still access it by logging into your Ftax Account at https://ftax.co.uk/.
Ftax Account
- Can I save tax return data to my Ftax Account?
Yes, you are able to save tax return data either to your computer (Export as xfdf) or to your Ftax Account (Export to account). Click the ‘Export’ button at the bottom of the opening page of your Ftax form and these options will be prompted.
If you select ‘Export to account’ the tax return data will be stored in the Ftax Record defined by the tax year, form, and UTR. This may be viewed in the Record after it is updated (this may take 5 minutes).
To import the data again select ‘Import/Import from account’. You will then be prompted to select from a dropdown list of users/clients, and asked to select the year you wish to import from. Importing from the previous year is a quick way to get this year’s tax return started. Importing from the current year (or in the case of the CT600, the tax year in which the Accounting Period ends) allows you to continue the completion of a return.
- Do HMRC recommend that tax filing records are kept?
Yes. The following HMRC recommendation is included in the ‘success’ file returned when a submission is successful:
“We strongly recommend that you keep this receipt electronically, and we advise that you also keep your submission electronically for your records. They are evidence of the information that you submitted to HMRC.”
- Have my payment details been stored from last year?
No. It may look as if they have, but they haven’t. Please enter all of you payment details again and reselect your card type.
- How can I delete my data that you hold?
If you wish to delete your data that we hold, please raise a support ticket asking us to do so.
We will contact you to confirm the request is legitimate before actually deleting your data.
We will also confirm what data you wish us to delete.
We will also give you the opportunity to receive a portable copy of your data if you wish.Once deleted, your data will no longer be held by us, and we will not be able to recover it.
Please note that deleting some or all of your data will not remove your ftax account.
If you wish us to remove your entire Ftax Account, please ask us in your support request.
- How can I obtain a copy of Ftax from a previous tax filing year?
Previous year copies of Ftax can be purchased and downloaded from the website.
New Users should visit https://www.ftax.co.uk/ and select the 'Buy' button from 'Ftax for Individuals', 'Ftax for Businesses' or 'Ftax for Agents'. You can then change the year using the < and > arrows.
Existing Users should login to their Ftax account (visit https://www.ftax.co.uk/) and use the < and > arrows at the top of the Ftax Forms table to change the year.
- How do I download an Ftax PDF form?
Read the FAQ How do I setup my browser to prompt me to save downloads? and make sure you browser is set up to download and save.
Log into your Ftax Account via the Ftax website https://www.ftax.co.uk/ and look through the 'Ftax Forms' table.
Previously purchased forms may be downloaded via the 'Download' buttons.
Make sure that you download and ‘Save’ the forms files to a known folder before opening them in Adobe Reader. Ftax forms are intelligent pdf files and so can be copied and renamed if required.
Mac users need to open Ftax in Adobe Reader and NOT in Preview. To do this you can either, open Adobe Reader first and then open the form, or you can ‘right-click’ the file, select 'Open with...', and then select Adobe Reader.
Please ensure that you comply with the Special Notice that will be displayed when the form first opens, and log into your Ftax Account from the form when prompted.
- How do I upgrade to the latest Ftax PDF form version?
Ftax forms are constantly being improved.
To upgrade, login to your Ftax Account and download the latest version of the form you require for the 'Ftax Forms' table.
To transfer data, Export data from the old version and Import it into the new.
- How is my data stored securely?
Access to your Ftax Account can only be made using your ‘username’ and ‘password’. Only you know the password, so that only you can access your data via the website.
Your Ftax Records data is encrypted before being securely stored. The backups taken every day will also be encrypted. Only a limited number of ‘super user’ Ablegatio personal have access to the encryption keys. Your data will not be viewed by anyone without your permission.
The data will be decrypted at the point you click to View via your Ftax Account. Data transfer to your browser will be secured via an SSL certificate.
- I cannot login to my Ftax Account. What should do?
== You must login using your email address and password ==
== Your email is your username ==
If you have forgotten your password, click 'Forgot Password' on the log-in screen and follow the on screen prompts.
If you have opened an Ftax form and have previously saved your login details on your computer, these may no longer work and the form will show:
If you know your email address registered with your Ftax account, you can simply ignore this (Click OK) and log the form into your Ftax account using your email address and existing password.
You can access the login box at any time from a form by clicking the red question mark on the front page and selecting Ftax Account Login.
If you don't know what email address you have registered with your Ftax account, you can recover your account by accessing the Ftax website at www.ftax.co.uk and clicking LOGIN in the top right hand corner. From the login screen select "recover your account" to access the "Forgot Email" box. Follow the instructions and an email reminder will be sent to your registered email address.
If you don't have an email address registered with your Ftax account, or you no longer have access to your registered email account, you can recover your account by accessing the Ftax website at www.ftax.co.uk and clicking LOGIN in the top right hand corner. From the login screen select "recover your account" to access the "Forgot Email" box. Follow the instructions to send an email reminder then click 'I did not receive the email' on the website to be re-directed to a 'Reset Unknown Account' form. Complete this form and we will be in touch with you.
If you experience a problem using the automated password/username recovery system (described above) then please send an email to support@ftax.co.uk which includes the email address used when registering with Ftax, or/and your Ftax Account username. The Ftax Support team can then manually recover your Ftax Account logon details.
If you are experiencing problems when logging into you Ftax Account from an Ftax form, by clicking the '?' in a red ball on the opening page and select the bottom option, then run through the Ftax Setup Checklist either via the FAQ or via the video. If your Ftax Account password contains any character other than alphanumerics or the following characters '@ . ! $ % * ? _ - +', then login to your Ftax Account on the website, go to Account Details, and change the password.
Warning: be careful not to confuse your Ftax Account username and password with you HMRC Gateway User ID and Password.
- I have a problem with the new Ftax Support system. How can I contact the support team directly?
You are strongly recommended to use the new Ftax Support system. We are confident that you will find it the fastest way to resolve any tax filing problem you are experiencing.
But if you are having a problem using it for the first time, then please email the Ftax Support team directly at support@ftax.co.uk.
- I have forgotten my username or password. What should I do?
== You must login using your email address and password ==
== Your email is your username ==
If you have forgotten your password, click 'Forgot Password' on the log-in screen and follow the on screen prompts.
If you have opened an Ftax form and have previously saved your login details on your computer, these may no longer work and the form will show:
If you know your email address registered with your Ftax account, you can simply ignore this (Click OK) and log the form into your Ftax account using your email address and existing password.
You can access the login box at any time from a form by clicking the red question mark on the front page and selecting Ftax Account Login.
If you don't know what email address you have registered with your Ftax account, you can recover your account by accessing the Ftax website at www.ftax.co.uk and clicking LOGIN in the top right hand corner. From the login screen select "recover your account" to access the "Forgot Email" box. Follow the instructions and an email reminder will be sent to your registered email address.
If you don't have an email address registered with your Ftax account, or you no longer have access to your registered email account, you can recover your account by accessing the Ftax website at www.ftax.co.uk and clicking LOGIN in the top right hand corner. From the login screen select "recover your account" to access the "Forgot Email" box. Follow the instructions to send an email reminder then click 'I did not receive the email' on the website to be re-directed to a 'Reset Unknown Account' form. Complete this form and we will be in touch with you.
If you experience a problem using the automated password/username recovery system (described above) then please send an email to support@ftax.co.uk which includes the email address used when registering with Ftax, or/and your Ftax Account username. The Ftax Support team can then manually recover your Ftax Account logon details.
If you are experiencing problems when logging into you Ftax Account from an Ftax form, by clicking the '?' in a red ball on the opening page and select the bottom option, then run through the Ftax Setup Checklist either via the FAQ or via the video. If your Ftax Account password contains any character other than alphanumerics or the following characters '@ . ! $ % * ? _ - +', then login to your Ftax Account on the website, go to Account Details, and change the password.
Warning: be careful not to confuse your Ftax Account username and password with you HMRC Gateway User ID and Password.
- I have received a fine for submitting an Amended return. Why has this happened and what can I do?
If you have submitted an amended return without first successfully submitting (either online or by post) then you may receive a fine.
You can appeal the fine by completing the ‘Reasonably Excuse’ form. Contact HMRC for advice on what to do next.
- My payment details have not been accepted. Why?
Please enter all of your payment details again and reselect your card type. It may look as if they have been retained from last year, but they haven’t.
- What is a Cashbook Client Password and why would I want to generate a new one?
The Cashbook Client Password, or just Cashbook Password, is a password you set per cashbook and that you can pass to your clients in order for them to access their data within your account.
You may wish to change or reset this if you or your client believe that the current password is not longer secure.
- What should I check before using Ftax? (Ftax Setup Checklist)
After downloading the latest Ftax form, saving it to a known location, and opening in a recent version of Adobe Reader, the following must be carried out before completing the Ftax return:
1. Comply with the Special Notice
This should be automatically displayed when an Ftax form is first opened in Adobe Reader. It may be redisplayed at anytime by clicking the ‘?’ in a red ball on the opening page of the Ftax form and selecting the top option. This reads:
- Select ‘EditPreferencesJavascript’ from the Reader menu bar
(Mac users should select ‘Adobe ReaderPreferencesJavascript’). - Make sure the top box ‘Enable Acrobat Javascript’ IS ticked, the next 2 boxes are NOT ticked, and the bottom box IS ticked.
- Then select ‘EditPreferencesSecurity (Enhanced)’, and untick the ‘Enable enhanced security’ box
(Mac users should select ‘EditPreferencesSecurity (Enhanced)’).
2. Login to your Ftax Account from the form
The Ftax Account Login popup should be automatically displayed when the ‘Continue’ button is clicked (twice) on the Special Notice. This can also be displayed at anytime by clicking the ‘?’ in a red ball and selecting the bottom option.
Make sure the ‘Do NOT login to my Ftax Account’ box is unticked, and enter your Ftax Account Username and Password before clicking ‘Login’. You are also advised to first tick the ‘Save login details on computer’ box so that you remain automatically logged in.
Note: - Do not confuse your Ftax Account Username and Password with the Gateway User ID and Password.
On clicking ‘Login’ a popup should confirm ‘Login Success’. The number of remaining credits should also be displayed towards the bottom left of the Ftax form. If the popup displays the following error messages then please do as advised:
‘Communication Problem’ – This may be due to you not having Internet access, but is more likely to be due to the ‘Enhanced Security’ box still being ticked in the Adobe Reader Preferences. Please return to step 1. and correct.
‘SOAPservice not recognised …’ – This may also be due to lack of Internet access, or the Special Notice not being fully complied with as described above. But it may also be due your computer not trusting www.ftax.co.uk. Please go to Edit/Preferences/Trust Manager (or Adobe Reader/Preferences/Trust Manager if on a Mac), click ‘Change Settings’, and ensure the ftax.co.uk is trusted. Also check that any security software you may be using is not blocking access to the Ftax website. If the problem persists then try reinstalling Adobe Reader, or turn your security software off while using Ftax. If you successfully login to your Ftax Account from the form and then have a subsequent problem that requires support, be sure to tell Ftax support that you have successfully logged in.
3. Allocate a credit to the UTR
When a new UTR is entered then a popup should prompt you to ‘allocate a credit’. Another popup will confirm when the credit has been allocated. At this point a ‘credit code’ will be automatically transferred allowing the form to Calculate and Submit. If you enter a UTR that already has a credit allocated then you will be allowed to continue without allocating another credit.
If, when you enter a UTR, a popup asks you to enter a ‘4 digit credit code’ then you are not logged in to your Ftax Account. In this case please return to step 2. and login.
Important Notice: While the ‘enable enhanced security’ box is unticked you are advised not to open pdf attachments emailed from unknown addresses (emails from ftax.co.uk will be ok). You are advised to leave the ‘enable enhanced security’ box ticked when you are not using Ftax.
- Select ‘EditPreferencesJavascript’ from the Reader menu bar
- How do I setup my browser to prompt me to save downloads?
Ftax forms must be opened in Adobe Reader.
It is important not to open them in a browser, or other software (such as Preview, on a Mac).
You must check that your browser prompts you to ‘Save’ when downloading files.
In Chrome:
- Click on the 3 dots in the top right of your Chrome window and select Settings.
- Scroll to the bottom of the page and click on Advanced.
- In the Downloads section, click Clear next to Open certain file types automatically after downloading.
- This will clear all previous settings and will download files as the default action.
In Edge:
- Click on the 3 dots in the top right of your Edge window and select Settings.
- Select Downloads from the left hand menu and turn on Ask me what to do with each download.
In Firefox:
- Select Tools/Options/General/Downloads from the menu bar, and tick ‘Show the Downloads window when downloading a file’.
In Safari:
- Click Preferences and untick ‘open safe files after downloading’.
- Also untick ‘Block Pop Up Windows’.
- Will I receive a loyalty discount if I purchased Ftax last year?
Yes, loyalty discount codes will be emailed to purchasers of the previous year’s Ftax service at the beginning of each new tax year. Loyalty discounts are usually 15% and only valid during April.
Ftax PDF Forms
- Why can't I find the 'Highlight Fields' button to the right of the purple Reader bar?
Recent editions of Adobe Reader do not feature this button (or the purple bar referred to).
Instead, please select Edit -> Preferences -> Forms and untick the 'Show border hover color for fields' check box.
This will ensure that any fields highlighted in yellow by the Ftax form, are visible.
- Why is Acrobat Reader slow or Not Responding?
There appears to be a problem with the latest versions of Acrobat Reader 2021.001.20135 and 2021.001.20138 which causes Ftax forms to run slowly at times, or not to respond.
If you install a previous version of Acrobat Reader, this problem will be overcome.To install a previous version (Windows users):
First, uninstall your current version of Acrobat Reader.
1. Click the start menu and right click Acrobat Reader DC.
2. From the menu that pops up, select Uninstall to access the Programs and Features control panel.
3. Select Adobe Acrobat Reader DC from the list of programs and click Uninstall from the top to start the uninstall process.
4. Follow the windows prompts until the software uninstalls.
Second, Download and install a previous version of Acrobat Reader from Adobe.
1. Open a Windows Explorer/File Explorer window (press Win+E).
2. Click to select the Address bar.
If the Address bar isn't visible in Windows XP, choose View > Address Bar3. In the address bar type the address of Adobe's software storage:
ftp://ftp.adobe.com/pub/adobe/reader/win/
for windows, or
ftp://ftp.adobe.com/pub/adobe/reader/mac/
for mac, and press enter.
Note: This is a Windows Explorer/File Explorer window not a browser window.
4. You should be presented with a file structure of previous versions of Reader.
We have identified that the problem does not occur if you use AcrobatDC 2001320064.
If you wish to download and install this version, open the ReaderDC folder, then open the 2001320064 folder and copy the file AcroRdrDC2001320064_en_US.exe to your computer by dragging it onto your desktop (or other location). This is the english language version, other versions are available.
5. Once the file is downloaded onto your computer, double click the file to start the installation, and follow the Adobe prompts.
Don't forget, you will need to follow the setup checklist again with your new software:
What should I check before using Ftax? (Ftax Setup Checklist)
If Acrobat Reader updates to the latest version and Adobe have not fixed this problem, you will need to follow this process again.
If you have any problems uninstalling Acrobat Reader, Adobe have produced a tool called AcroCleaner to help:
https://www.adobe.com/devnet-docs/acrobatetk/tools/Labs/cleaner.html
- Why won't the Ftax form accept my new HMRC password?
HMRC have recently changed their specification to accept a wide range of non-alphanumeric characters, and a password length of greater than 12 characters.
Ftax are in the process of updating their forms to the same HMRC specification. We expect to have this work completed by April 2021, ready for the new tax year's forms.
In the meantime, please ensure that your HMRC password contains only alphanumerics and is no longer than 12 characters. To change this, you need to use your HMRC account.
- When I submit, the error message 'You appear not to be logged into your Ftax Account' is returned. What should I do?
Click the '?' in a red ball, select the bottom option, and log into your Ftax Account again.
Then, clear the UTR and enter it again to ensure a credit has been allocated and a tick appears to the right of the UTR.
Then submit again.
- How can I start or stop Adobe Acrobat Reader DC automatically updating?
Adobe Reader is setup to automatically update periodically when you are connected to the internet. There is no preference within Reader which allows you to change this behaviour.
If you wish to, one way to stop the updates for Windows10, is:
1. Click the Windows Search box (the question mark) and type 'services' then click the Services App to open it.
2. Right-click the 'Adobe Acrobat Update Service' in the right hand pane of the app and select 'Properties' from the menu that appears.
3. On the 'General' tab, change the 'Startup type' to 'Disabled', then click 'Apply'.
4 Still on the 'General' tab, click the 'Stop' button to stop the service.
5. Click 'OK' to close the dialogue box then close the 'Services' app (click the X in the top right).
To re-start the automatic updates for Windows10, the process similar:
- Click the Windows Search box (the question mark) and type 'services' then click the Services App to open it.
- Right-click the 'Adobe Acrobat Update Service' in the right hand pane of the app and select 'Properties' from the menu that appears.
- On the 'General' tab, change the 'Startup type' to 'Automatic', then click 'Apply'.
- Still on the 'General' tab, click the 'Start' button to stop the service.
- Click 'OK' to close the dialogue box then close the 'Services' app (click the X in the top right).
- Why am I seeing a Communication Error: "SOAPservice is undefined" when using a form?
The most likely reason far a Communication Error:"SOAPservice is undefined" when logging in to your account from an Ftax form is that your version of Windows is not using the correct TLS (Transport Layer Security) version.
Ftax forms require TLS 1.2 to be available for use.
TLS settings are handled via the Advanced tab of the Internet Properties (or Internet Options) dialogue box.
To open the Internet Properties (or Internet Options), press the start button and start typing Internet Properties (or Internet Options) and Windows will show you the control panel to open.
Once open, click the Advanced tab at the top:
Please make sure that your system has TLS 1.2 version ticked, click the OK (or Apply) button and try again.
- When submitting, "SOAPError: not well-formed invalid token at ...." is displayed in a popup. What should I do?
This error is caused by the presence of an illegal character (one that is not allowed in the submission) somewhere within the tax form, often in a comment box.
Take a look through your form and remove anything unusual (i.e. not letters or numbers or standard punctuation) - for the SA900 the '£' sign can be a problem. Also check any attachment filenames and remove any '&' characters.
Sometimes these characters are not visible and have been entered when cut and pasting text or importing data. If this is the case then the quickest way forward is to download a new copy of the form and to complete it manually without using cut and paste or importing data.
- Why does printing a form seem to print many documents?
When you choose to print a form, the option you pick will determine which pages of the form are printed.
Sometimes, to print only the pages you have chosen, the form will send multiple small print 'jobs' to your printer (some only one page long).
So if, when you hit print, it looks like lots of different documents are being printed, don't worry, its just different sections and pages being sent separately - you will find, once all have been printed, that you have the output you asked for.
- A ‘SOAP’ error is being displayed. What should I do?
If a ‘SOAPservice not recognised’ or similar error message is popping up then your computer has failed to connect to your Ftax Account at www.ftax.co.uk.
This may be due to communication being ‘Blocked’ caused by a lack of Internet access or the second part of the Special Notice not being complied with.
It may also occur when your computer does not trust the Ftax server.
Turning your computer off and on again sometimes overcomes this.
Also ensure that your computer does trust www.ftax.co.uk via Edit/Preferences/Trust Manager in the Reader menu bar, and that any security software on your computer or network trusts the Ftax server.
Also, click the ‘?’ in a red ball and select the top option to check you have complied with the second part of the Special Notice.
- For how long can amended returns be submitted?
Return amendments can be submitted up to 12 months after the statutory filing date (at midnight on 31st January).
Amendments made more than 12 months after the online filing date should be submitted by paper.
- An Ftax form is highlighting errors in yellow. What should I do?
On the opening Ftax page then any section with an error or omission will be highlighted in yellow in the panel on the right.
Click on the section name to be taken to the location of the first error. If you then point at the yellow fields with your cursor a popup will explain the nature of the problem.
- How can I be sure I have submitted successfully?
As well as the onscreen receipt, two emails will confirm a successful submission. If these do not arrive please check your spam box as well as the email address entered on your tax return. One email will come directly from HMRC while the other will arrive via the Ftax server. This second email will have a ‘success’ attachment that can be read in a text editor and should be retained as proof of submission. Be sure you don’t submit an Amended return before you have successfully submitted a New return.
One way to double check you have submitted successfully is to submit again as New. If you have already submitted successfully then an error message will tell you so.
But most importantly, always check that your submissions have been accepted by logging in to your HMRC account at https://online.hmrc.gov.uk/home. There will be a two working day delay from the time you submit to when the website is updated.
It is your responsibility to ensure that the tax return has reached and been accepted by HMRC before the deadline.
- How can I reduce the size of a pdf attachment?
Currently, the Ftax service will handle attachments up to a combined file size of 1M.
PDFs can be reduced in size using the free service at smallpdf.com/compress-pdf .
- How do I download an Ftax PDF form?
Read the FAQ How do I setup my browser to prompt me to save downloads? and make sure you browser is set up to download and save.
Log into your Ftax Account via the Ftax website https://www.ftax.co.uk/ and look through the 'Ftax Forms' table.
Previously purchased forms may be downloaded via the 'Download' buttons.
Make sure that you download and ‘Save’ the forms files to a known folder before opening them in Adobe Reader. Ftax forms are intelligent pdf files and so can be copied and renamed if required.
Mac users need to open Ftax in Adobe Reader and NOT in Preview. To do this you can either, open Adobe Reader first and then open the form, or you can ‘right-click’ the file, select 'Open with...', and then select Adobe Reader.
Please ensure that you comply with the Special Notice that will be displayed when the form first opens, and log into your Ftax Account from the form when prompted.
- How do I login to my Ftax Account from an Ftax PDF form?
The Ftax PDF forms need to communicate with your Ftax Account to manage your data and your credits.
You must now login using your email address and password - your email is your username.
Click on the ‘?’ in a red ball, select the bottom option, and untick the box in the popup.
Enter your Ftax Account Username and Password and click ‘Login’.
If you also tick the ‘Save login details on computer’ box then the Ftax form will automatically login to your Ftax Account when it needs to.
If you have any problems please take a look at the FAQ: I cannot login to my Ftax Account. What should do?
- How do I submit an amended tax return?
After clicking ‘Submit Now’ you will be prompted to select either ‘New’ or ‘Amend’.
Only submit an amended tax return if that return has already been successfully submitted. Otherwise you risk receiving a fine.
- How do I submit an Ftax return?
After completing the form and carrying out any necessary calculations, return to the front page and click ‘Submit’. Then click ‘I Agree’ and ‘Submit Now’ before selecting ‘New’ or ‘Amend’. After several seconds an onscreen receipt will be displayed and a confirmation email sent.
If, for any reason, you are unsure about whether or not you have submitted successfully then you can submit again as New. If you have already submitted successfully then an error message will tell you so.
- How do I upgrade to the latest Ftax PDF form version?
Ftax forms are constantly being improved.
To upgrade, login to your Ftax Account and download the latest version of the form you require for the 'Ftax Forms' table.
To transfer data, Export data from the old version and Import it into the new.
- I am new to Ftax and have a problem getting started with a pdf form. What is the best way to get help?
The ‘Ftax Setup Checklist’ video is a step-by-step guide to setting Ftax forms up ready for use. Care has been taken to explain how to overcome every known problem, and so please pay close attention when you watch and re-watch.
Click here to watch the ‘Ftax Setup Checklist’ video.
Ftax tax returns are pdf forms which run on Adobe Reader. Sometimes the forms can become corrupt, causing them to lose their special properties, e.g. the ability to ‘Save’ form data. If this happens then download a fresh copy of the form from your Ftax Account. Adobe Reader may also become corrupt causing the form to display incorrectly. Reinstalling Adobe Reader via ‘Get Reader’ at http://www.adobe.com should overcome this problem, although you will need to go through the Ftax setup again.
Make sure you open the Ftax form into Adobe Reader and not into Preview. This is a common mistake on a Mac.
- I cannot login to my Ftax Account. What should do?
== You must login using your email address and password ==
== Your email is your username ==
If you have forgotten your password, click 'Forgot Password' on the log-in screen and follow the on screen prompts.
If you have opened an Ftax form and have previously saved your login details on your computer, these may no longer work and the form will show:
If you know your email address registered with your Ftax account, you can simply ignore this (Click OK) and log the form into your Ftax account using your email address and existing password.
You can access the login box at any time from a form by clicking the red question mark on the front page and selecting Ftax Account Login.
If you don't know what email address you have registered with your Ftax account, you can recover your account by accessing the Ftax website at www.ftax.co.uk and clicking LOGIN in the top right hand corner. From the login screen select "recover your account" to access the "Forgot Email" box. Follow the instructions and an email reminder will be sent to your registered email address.
If you don't have an email address registered with your Ftax account, or you no longer have access to your registered email account, you can recover your account by accessing the Ftax website at www.ftax.co.uk and clicking LOGIN in the top right hand corner. From the login screen select "recover your account" to access the "Forgot Email" box. Follow the instructions to send an email reminder then click 'I did not receive the email' on the website to be re-directed to a 'Reset Unknown Account' form. Complete this form and we will be in touch with you.
If you experience a problem using the automated password/username recovery system (described above) then please send an email to support@ftax.co.uk which includes the email address used when registering with Ftax, or/and your Ftax Account username. The Ftax Support team can then manually recover your Ftax Account logon details.
If you are experiencing problems when logging into you Ftax Account from an Ftax form, by clicking the '?' in a red ball on the opening page and select the bottom option, then run through the Ftax Setup Checklist either via the FAQ or via the video. If your Ftax Account password contains any character other than alphanumerics or the following characters '@ . ! $ % * ? _ - +', then login to your Ftax Account on the website, go to Account Details, and change the password.
Warning: be careful not to confuse your Ftax Account username and password with you HMRC Gateway User ID and Password.
- I have a problem completing/submitting an Ftax pdf form. What is the best way to get help?
If you are experiencing problems entering data in the Ftax form, generating a PDF Copy or iXBRL file, or submitting to HMRC, then you should attach the entire Ftax form with attachments to a Support Request
Cut and paste any error messages you receive into the support request message.
This will help the Ftax Support team to respond much faster. Click here to send a Support Request.
- I have received a fine for submitting an Amended return. Why has this happened and what can I do?
If you have submitted an amended return without first successfully submitting (either online or by post) then you may receive a fine.
You can appeal the fine by completing the ‘Reasonably Excuse’ form. Contact HMRC for advice on what to do next.
- I have received a ‘Government Gateway log-in failure’ error message when submitting. What should I do?
The full error message reads:
Government Gateway log-in failure, please check your User ID, UTR and Gateway password are correct. You can check your User ID and password are valid by logging into the Inland Revenue portal at https://online.hmrc.gov.uk/home. If you view your statement after logging in you will also see confirmation of your UTR.
This error message is always correct and is caused by an error in the entry of the User ID, Password, or UTR on the front page of the Ftax form. Common mistakes include entering an inappropriate UTR, e.g. the Partnership UTR instead of the Individual UTR. Characters are sometimes entered incorrectly, e.g. an ‘l’ can be entered instead of an ‘1’, or an ‘S’ entered instead of a ‘5’. Please check very carefully. Also check that your Password has been activated using the PIN sent to you in the post by Government Gateway when you first registered for online filing.
- I have received an HMRC fine, but thought I had submitted on time. What can I do?
Please read the FAQ above entitled ‘How can I be sure I have submitted successfully?’.
If you have received a fine from HMRC for failing to submit a tax return on time then click on this link for further information, http://www.hmrc.gov.uk/online/excuse-missed-deadline.htm. The section on ‘Problems with your own computer or software’ may be of particular assistance.
- The document is trying to connect to https://submission.ftax.co.uk when I submit. What should I do?
Click Allow to enable your form to submit. If you accidentally Block access then use the Adobe Reader Trust Manager to unblock. To do this, select ‘Edit/Preferences/Trust Manager/Change Settings’ from the Adobe Reader menu bar. Mac users should select ‘Adobe Reader/Preferences/Trust Manager/Change Settings’.
- An Ftax form is asking me to enter a Credit Code. What does this mean?
If you are being prompted to enter a Credit Code then your form is not online to your Ftax Account. You need to be online to enable your form to communicate with your Ftax Account to automatically manage the credits. An Ftax credit will enable a form to be calculated, printed, and submitted as many times as required for a given UTR and tax year.
To ensure the Ftax form is online, click the ‘?’ in a red ball, select the bottom option, and make sure the box to the bottom left is unticked. You will then be able to enter the Ftax Account username and password and login.
- What do the Ftax onscreen receipts mean?
Ftax will return one of three types of receipt:
Success – This will feature a green band across the top and confirm that your submission has been accepted by HMRC. If you have submitted an Amended return, be very careful to only do this if you have previously submitted a successful return. If you don’t then HMRC may fine you even though the receipt signaled a successful submission.
Acknowledgement – This is returned if HMRC are busy. An email will be sent when the submission finally reaches HMRC to confirm whether it has been successful or not.
Error – This will feature a red band across the top and give a reason for failure. If you do not understand the error message (which is usually sent directly from HMRC) then cut and paste it into a Support Request.
- What should I check before using Ftax? (Ftax Setup Checklist)
After downloading the latest Ftax form, saving it to a known location, and opening in a recent version of Adobe Reader, the following must be carried out before completing the Ftax return:
1. Comply with the Special Notice
This should be automatically displayed when an Ftax form is first opened in Adobe Reader. It may be redisplayed at anytime by clicking the ‘?’ in a red ball on the opening page of the Ftax form and selecting the top option. This reads:
- Select ‘EditPreferencesJavascript’ from the Reader menu bar
(Mac users should select ‘Adobe ReaderPreferencesJavascript’). - Make sure the top box ‘Enable Acrobat Javascript’ IS ticked, the next 2 boxes are NOT ticked, and the bottom box IS ticked.
- Then select ‘EditPreferencesSecurity (Enhanced)’, and untick the ‘Enable enhanced security’ box
(Mac users should select ‘EditPreferencesSecurity (Enhanced)’).
2. Login to your Ftax Account from the form
The Ftax Account Login popup should be automatically displayed when the ‘Continue’ button is clicked (twice) on the Special Notice. This can also be displayed at anytime by clicking the ‘?’ in a red ball and selecting the bottom option.
Make sure the ‘Do NOT login to my Ftax Account’ box is unticked, and enter your Ftax Account Username and Password before clicking ‘Login’. You are also advised to first tick the ‘Save login details on computer’ box so that you remain automatically logged in.
Note: - Do not confuse your Ftax Account Username and Password with the Gateway User ID and Password.
On clicking ‘Login’ a popup should confirm ‘Login Success’. The number of remaining credits should also be displayed towards the bottom left of the Ftax form. If the popup displays the following error messages then please do as advised:
‘Communication Problem’ – This may be due to you not having Internet access, but is more likely to be due to the ‘Enhanced Security’ box still being ticked in the Adobe Reader Preferences. Please return to step 1. and correct.
‘SOAPservice not recognised …’ – This may also be due to lack of Internet access, or the Special Notice not being fully complied with as described above. But it may also be due your computer not trusting www.ftax.co.uk. Please go to Edit/Preferences/Trust Manager (or Adobe Reader/Preferences/Trust Manager if on a Mac), click ‘Change Settings’, and ensure the ftax.co.uk is trusted. Also check that any security software you may be using is not blocking access to the Ftax website. If the problem persists then try reinstalling Adobe Reader, or turn your security software off while using Ftax. If you successfully login to your Ftax Account from the form and then have a subsequent problem that requires support, be sure to tell Ftax support that you have successfully logged in.
3. Allocate a credit to the UTR
When a new UTR is entered then a popup should prompt you to ‘allocate a credit’. Another popup will confirm when the credit has been allocated. At this point a ‘credit code’ will be automatically transferred allowing the form to Calculate and Submit. If you enter a UTR that already has a credit allocated then you will be allowed to continue without allocating another credit.
If, when you enter a UTR, a popup asks you to enter a ‘4 digit credit code’ then you are not logged in to your Ftax Account. In this case please return to step 2. and login.
Important Notice: While the ‘enable enhanced security’ box is unticked you are advised not to open pdf attachments emailed from unknown addresses (emails from ftax.co.uk will be ok). You are advised to leave the ‘enable enhanced security’ box ticked when you are not using Ftax.
- Select ‘EditPreferencesJavascript’ from the Reader menu bar
Fax (MTD) VAT
- How can I transfer VAT report data from my spreadsheet to the Ftax VAT form?
Transfer data using a .csv file. Details on how to do this are given in the FAQ ‘How do I export my VAT report from my spreadsheet as a .csv file?’.
- Why is Acrobat Reader slow or Not Responding?
There appears to be a problem with the latest versions of Acrobat Reader 2021.001.20135 and 2021.001.20138 which causes Ftax forms to run slowly at times, or not to respond.
If you install a previous version of Acrobat Reader, this problem will be overcome.To install a previous version (Windows users):
First, uninstall your current version of Acrobat Reader.
1. Click the start menu and right click Acrobat Reader DC.
2. From the menu that pops up, select Uninstall to access the Programs and Features control panel.
3. Select Adobe Acrobat Reader DC from the list of programs and click Uninstall from the top to start the uninstall process.
4. Follow the windows prompts until the software uninstalls.
Second, Download and install a previous version of Acrobat Reader from Adobe.
1. Open a Windows Explorer/File Explorer window (press Win+E).
2. Click to select the Address bar.
If the Address bar isn't visible in Windows XP, choose View > Address Bar3. In the address bar type the address of Adobe's software storage:
ftp://ftp.adobe.com/pub/adobe/reader/win/
for windows, or
ftp://ftp.adobe.com/pub/adobe/reader/mac/
for mac, and press enter.
Note: This is a Windows Explorer/File Explorer window not a browser window.
4. You should be presented with a file structure of previous versions of Reader.
We have identified that the problem does not occur if you use AcrobatDC 2001320064.
If you wish to download and install this version, open the ReaderDC folder, then open the 2001320064 folder and copy the file AcroRdrDC2001320064_en_US.exe to your computer by dragging it onto your desktop (or other location). This is the english language version, other versions are available.
5. Once the file is downloaded onto your computer, double click the file to start the installation, and follow the Adobe prompts.
Don't forget, you will need to follow the setup checklist again with your new software:
What should I check before using Ftax? (Ftax Setup Checklist)
If Acrobat Reader updates to the latest version and Adobe have not fixed this problem, you will need to follow this process again.
If you have any problems uninstalling Acrobat Reader, Adobe have produced a tool called AcroCleaner to help:
https://www.adobe.com/devnet-docs/acrobatetk/tools/Labs/cleaner.html
- Is the HMRC VAT service currently available?
You can check the availability of HMRC's Making Tax Digital VAT platform using the link below:
- "Client or Agent not authorised (403)" error - What am I doing wrong?
Probably nothing. The overwhelming reason that people seem to get this error is that they have not quite followed HMRC's sign-up procedure.
To sign up to MTD for VAT with HMRC, particularly as an agent, you must go through their sign-up procedure precisely. There are a number of different steps you need to undertake in the correct order and, sometimes, within the correct timescale.
HMRC have published a step by step guide for agents which can bee seen here and which they recommend all agents use when signing up to the service.
We have also produced a couple of FAQs on the subject:
If you are getting this error, have a look at the above guides - they will almost certainly tell you what you need to do.
In most cases the reason is one of the following:
- The agent didn’t use their agent services account (ASA) credentials to link MTD VAT software
- The agent hasn’t signed up to the ASA
- The agent has signed up but has not linked their clients
- The agent has signed up and linked clients but the customer hasn’t subscribed to the Making Tax Digital service.
- Can Ftax MTD VAT forms submit monthly VAT reports as well as quarterly reports?
Yes. The Ftax VAT form will adapt its display depending on whether the imported HMRC VAT period dates are monthly or quarterly.
The VAT period details are imported from HMRC when the VAT Registration Number (VRN) is entered and whenever the VAT page is opened. The ‘Next’ and ‘Previous’ buttons on the VAT page can be used to scroll through the quarterly or monthly reports.
Each Ftax MTD VAT package includes all VAT submissions for the year, whether that consists of 4 quarterly submissions or 12 monthly submissions.
- Can Sage VAT reports be imported into the Ftax VAT form?
Yes, provided you first export the VAT report from Sage as a .csv file.
After setting up the Ftax VAT form (see video for details) go to the VAT page and click the red ‘Import VAT Report’ button. Select the ‘.csv’ option and browse to select the Sage VAT report .csv file. The data should be immediately imported and put into the correct format ready to submit to HMRC.
VAT reports from other accounting applications can also be imported into the Ftax VAT form provided they can be exported as a .csv file. You can also generate the .csv file using your own spreadsheets (see the FAQ ‘How do I export my VAT report from my spreadsheet as a .csv file?’).
If the VAT report .csv data fails to import, please send a sample via Ftax Support on the Ftax website. The Ftax team should be able to adjust the form such that the data can be imported successfully.
- How do I export my VAT report from my spreadsheet as a .csv file?
Exactly how this is done depends on the type of spreadsheet you are using. Examples are given below:
- Create a new worksheet in your spreadsheet, e.g. by clicking the ‘+’ or the ‘new sheet’ icon to the right of the tab at the bottom of the most recent worksheet.
- Link your 9 VAT report values to the new worksheet in a column. To do this, go to the new sheet, select the cell you wish to copy to, and type ’=’ in the Formula Bar above. Then go to the first sheet, select the VAT report value cell you want to link from, and press enter.
- Export the new worksheet as a .csv file, e.g. by clicking File/Save as from the left of the menu bar, then ‘save as type’ before selecting CSV (Comma delimited) and saving as a file in a known location.
The VAT report can be laid out on the new worksheet with a header and data to the left of the 9 VAT values. But there must be no data to the right of any of the 9 values.
- Create a new worksheet in your spreadsheet, e.g. by clicking the ‘+’ or the ‘new sheet’ icon to the right of the tab at the bottom of the most recent worksheet.
- Will customers receive penalties for not filing MTD returns or keeping digital records?
HMRC recently answered this question in the following manner:
Will customers receive penalties for not filing MTD returns or keeping digital records?
Not yet. The government has confirmed a light touch approach to penalties in the first year of implementation for MTD VAT. Where businesses are doing their best to comply, no filing or record keeping penalties will be issued. However, customers must continue to pay their VAT obligations on time, as late payment penalties will still apply.
MTD Developer Update: April 2019
- What must I do to sign up to MTD VAT? (Non-agent MTD step-by-step guide)
Step 1: Visit https://www.tax.service.gov.uk/vat-through-software/sign-up/software-ready. Click ‘Yes’, (as all of the Ftax (MTD) VAT packages or the Ftax (MTD) Cashbook packages submit VAT through MTD), and then ‘Continue’.
Step 2 : Click ‘Sign up’, enter your Government Gateway credentials, and then click ‘Sign in’. Once signed up to use MTD you cannot return to the previous method to submit VAT. If your business is not yet eligible to join, a message will appear to advise this.
If your business pays by Direct Debit then you need to sign up at least 7 working days before you need to submit.
Step 3: Follow the on-screen prompts and provide any requested information, including your email address.
Step 4: When you receive a verification email, click the link to verify your email address. Read and accept the terms of participation. HMRC will then confirm if you can start submitting VAT Returns under MTD. This confirmation usually occurs within 24 hours.
You must wait for the confirmation email from HMRC before to attempt to use the MTD software.
If you do not recieve a confirmation email from HMRC After 72 hours, you should report this to HMRC.
Step 5: After purchasing an Ftax MTD VAT package you must authorise the Ftax service to submit VAT returns using MTD. This is done by first logging into your Ftax Account and selecting the ‘Click here to Authorise Ftax’ link. You should then be prompted to ‘Continue’, to log into to your HMRC account using your existing Government Gateway User ID and password, and to click a ‘Grant authority’ button.
- As a tax agent must I create both client and agent copies when using Ftax VAT and Ftax Cashbook?
No. There are several ways the Ftax MTD forms may be used:
- You may advise your client to purchase the non-agent Ftax VAT or Ftax Cashbook package. These feature a single copy to be used solely by the client.
- If you have purchased either an Ftax Agent VAT or an Ftax Agent Cashbook package then you may generate both the agent and client copies before securely transferring the latter to your client using the password provided. The two copies are designed to be ‘sync’ed when in use so that the agent and client view the same data. Either may complete the form or submit to HMRC. Typically, the client may enter the VAT data, (either directly into the Ftax Cashbook, or into their own spreadsheet before using the Ftax VAT Link to transfer the data to the Ftax VAT pdf form), under the supervision of the agent.
- If you have purchased either an Ftax Agent VAT or an Ftax Agent Cashbook package then you may generate the agent copy only. You should do this if you plan to complete and submit the form on behalf of your client.
- If you have purchased either an Ftax Agent VAT or an Ftax Agent Cashbook package then you may choose to only generate the client copy before securely transferring this form to your client using the password provided. The client would then be able to enter all VAT data and submit to HMRC themselves.
- As a tax agent what must I do to sign up to MTD? (Agent MTD step-by-step guide)
HMRC's Step-by-Step guide to Making Tax Digital (MTD) sign up
Before you begin:- Agents need to create an Agent services account, which provides the agent with the log in details required to access the VAT APIs. Agents will also need to use the link existing clients’ service, if they want to submit for a client who they have an existing relationship with in VAT.
- Businesses submitting their own VAT returns only need to complete steps 3 and 4. They can do this using existing Government Gateway (GG) ID if they have one OR they can set up a new one.
- Be prepared - once signed up to MTD returns MUST be submitted using MTD compatible software, don’t sign up unless you are ready.
- Where a business pays by Direct Debit and email address must be provided.
- Business that pay by Direct Debit have to sign up at least 15 working days before they need to submit.
Important: The role of the Business Tax Account (BTA)
- A business does not have to set up a BTA for an agent to link clients to the new ASA.
- A business does not have to set up a BTA to be signed up to MTD by an agent (the journey only requires them to validate an email address).
- A business does need to have a BTA set up to authorise a new agent relationship.
- Once a business is signed up to MTD, the BTA will be used to send them notifications to file and provide a view of their VAT returns, so whilst the journey itself does not require the business to sign up to BTA being in the service and interacting with HMRC digitally does.
Step 1 : Create agent services account (ASA)
- Before signing up to MTD you must first create an Agent Services Account (ASA). For guidance and to create an account go to: https://www.gov.uk/guidance/get-an-hmrc-agent-services-account
- You may already have an ASA if you’ve signed up for the Trust Registration Service (TRS), you do not need to create a new one for MTD.
- The ASA is currently only used for the TRS, MTD VAT and MTD Income Tax. The GG ID which is generated in this journey is the one you will use to access MTD services. You will still need your old GG IDs to access other HMRC online services.
Step 2: Copy existing agent/ client relationships
- Once the ASA is created, you can use the service to copy existing authorised SA and VAT relationships you already have with a business, by following the guidance to copy existing clients.
- The copy clients service is accessed from inside the ASA, once done you will see a ‘Client Relationships Copied’ message.
- This process requires you to input your existing GG IDs so that we can identify the relationship already exists.
- All the clients that exist under a specific GG ID are linked to the ASA (if you have multiple GG accounts you may need to repeat this step to link all of your clients).
Important: The client list cannot be viewed from within the ASA however you are now able to view the number of client relationship copied over from HMRC online services.
Step 3: Authorise MTD compatible software
- Before signing a client up to the pilot you must make sure you have compatible software, see: https://www.gov.uk/guidance/software-for-sending-income-tax-updates
- If using existing software you need to make sure your provider’s MTD capabilities have been enabled – contact your provider to discuss.
- You must delegate authority to the MTD compatible software (this applies to both new and existing software).
Important: Once signed up returns must be submitted using MTD compatible software. You cannot use the previous channel.
Step 4 : Sign business up to Making Tax Digital (MTD)
- Using the new GG ID generated at step 1, you can sign up clients by going to: https://www.gov.uk/guidance/agents-use-software-to-submit-vat-returns
- You will receive confirmation that the client’s information has been received. We will email you (usually within 24 hours, but can take up to 72 hours) confirming you can start using MTD software to submit the client’s return.
- You should tell your client you are now submitting returns through Making Tax Digital.
- Each client needs to be signed up individually or the client can sign themselves up.
Important: For an Agent, when connecting software to HMRC you must use your new ASA GG ID (provided at step 1). If you attempt to log in with another GG ID our systems will not be able to recognise the MTD relationship with your client so you will receive an error message and be unable to file the return.
For more information on Making Tax Digital go to GOV.UK and type ‘Making Tax Digital for VAT’ into the search bar
- Can an Ftax Account be used with more than one HMRC MTD Account?
No.
This should not be an issue for agents who have one HMRC Account featuring many clients.
But an individual may only purchase one Ftax MTD package year within any Ftax Account. For example, if an individual has 2 VAT registered companies and a VAT registered self-employment, then they will need to purchase each within their own Ftax Account. Subsequent year forms may be purchased within the same Ftax Accounts.
In summary, only one HMRC User ID for an MTD account may be used within one Ftax Account.
- Do HMRC provide help or guidance about MTD?
Yes.
You can contact HMRC in relation to VAT in a range of ways listed on their website here.
In addition, HMRC have produced a range of guides and videos:
- Making Tax Digital for VAT as an agent: step by step - Follow these steps if you’re an agent and you want to submit VAT Returns for your clients digitally.
- Use software to submit your VAT Returns – A guide for businesses, outlining who can sign up to the MTD for VAT pilot and providing details of how to join.
- Agents: use software to submit VAT Returns – A guide for agents, outlining how agents and their clients can sign up for the MTD for VAT pilot and details of how to join.
- Stakeholder communications pack - dedicated resource for key stakeholders to obtain all the facts about MTD
- VAT notice 700/22
- MTD: How VAT businesses and other VAT entities can get ready
Videos available on HMRC's help and support page:
- What is the difference between Ftax VAT and Ftax Cashbook?
Both the Ftax VAT and the Ftax Cashbook packages enable the submission of VAT returns to HMRC in an MTD compliant manner.
The Ftax Cashbook is a low cost ‘online accounting’ solution, and as such enables the input of income and expense details. This data is then used to calculate VAT reports ready for submission to HMRC.
The Ftax VAT package allows you to use your own VAT calculations made on your own spreadsheets. A .csv file, which can be created using any spreadsheet package, enables this data to be transferred to the Ftax VAT pdf form according with the principles of MTD. From there the VAT return is submitted to HMRC.
The Ftax VAT pdf form is in reality a cut-down version of the Ftax Cashbook pdf form, with the four cashbook pages disabled (Incomes, Expenses, Customers, and Suppliers).
Ftax (MTD) Cashbook
- Why is Acrobat Reader slow or Not Responding?
There appears to be a problem with the latest versions of Acrobat Reader 2021.001.20135 and 2021.001.20138 which causes Ftax forms to run slowly at times, or not to respond.
If you install a previous version of Acrobat Reader, this problem will be overcome.To install a previous version (Windows users):
First, uninstall your current version of Acrobat Reader.
1. Click the start menu and right click Acrobat Reader DC.
2. From the menu that pops up, select Uninstall to access the Programs and Features control panel.
3. Select Adobe Acrobat Reader DC from the list of programs and click Uninstall from the top to start the uninstall process.
4. Follow the windows prompts until the software uninstalls.
Second, Download and install a previous version of Acrobat Reader from Adobe.
1. Open a Windows Explorer/File Explorer window (press Win+E).
2. Click to select the Address bar.
If the Address bar isn't visible in Windows XP, choose View > Address Bar3. In the address bar type the address of Adobe's software storage:
ftp://ftp.adobe.com/pub/adobe/reader/win/
for windows, or
ftp://ftp.adobe.com/pub/adobe/reader/mac/
for mac, and press enter.
Note: This is a Windows Explorer/File Explorer window not a browser window.
4. You should be presented with a file structure of previous versions of Reader.
We have identified that the problem does not occur if you use AcrobatDC 2001320064.
If you wish to download and install this version, open the ReaderDC folder, then open the 2001320064 folder and copy the file AcroRdrDC2001320064_en_US.exe to your computer by dragging it onto your desktop (or other location). This is the english language version, other versions are available.
5. Once the file is downloaded onto your computer, double click the file to start the installation, and follow the Adobe prompts.
Don't forget, you will need to follow the setup checklist again with your new software:
What should I check before using Ftax? (Ftax Setup Checklist)
If Acrobat Reader updates to the latest version and Adobe have not fixed this problem, you will need to follow this process again.
If you have any problems uninstalling Acrobat Reader, Adobe have produced a tool called AcroCleaner to help:
https://www.adobe.com/devnet-docs/acrobatetk/tools/Labs/cleaner.html
- Is the HMRC VAT service currently available?
You can check the availability of HMRC's Making Tax Digital VAT platform using the link below:
- As a tax agent must I create both client and agent copies when using Ftax VAT and Ftax Cashbook?
No. There are several ways the Ftax MTD forms may be used:
- You may advise your client to purchase the non-agent Ftax VAT or Ftax Cashbook package. These feature a single copy to be used solely by the client.
- If you have purchased either an Ftax Agent VAT or an Ftax Agent Cashbook package then you may generate both the agent and client copies before securely transferring the latter to your client using the password provided. The two copies are designed to be ‘sync’ed when in use so that the agent and client view the same data. Either may complete the form or submit to HMRC. Typically, the client may enter the VAT data, (either directly into the Ftax Cashbook, or into their own spreadsheet before using the Ftax VAT Link to transfer the data to the Ftax VAT pdf form), under the supervision of the agent.
- If you have purchased either an Ftax Agent VAT or an Ftax Agent Cashbook package then you may generate the agent copy only. You should do this if you plan to complete and submit the form on behalf of your client.
- If you have purchased either an Ftax Agent VAT or an Ftax Agent Cashbook package then you may choose to only generate the client copy before securely transferring this form to your client using the password provided. The client would then be able to enter all VAT data and submit to HMRC themselves.
- What is the difference between Ftax VAT and Ftax Cashbook?
Both the Ftax VAT and the Ftax Cashbook packages enable the submission of VAT returns to HMRC in an MTD compliant manner.
The Ftax Cashbook is a low cost ‘online accounting’ solution, and as such enables the input of income and expense details. This data is then used to calculate VAT reports ready for submission to HMRC.
The Ftax VAT package allows you to use your own VAT calculations made on your own spreadsheets. A .csv file, which can be created using any spreadsheet package, enables this data to be transferred to the Ftax VAT pdf form according with the principles of MTD. From there the VAT return is submitted to HMRC.
The Ftax VAT pdf form is in reality a cut-down version of the Ftax Cashbook pdf form, with the four cashbook pages disabled (Incomes, Expenses, Customers, and Suppliers).
Ftax Individual (SA100)
- Why is Acrobat Reader slow or Not Responding?
There appears to be a problem with the latest versions of Acrobat Reader 2021.001.20135 and 2021.001.20138 which causes Ftax forms to run slowly at times, or not to respond.
If you install a previous version of Acrobat Reader, this problem will be overcome.To install a previous version (Windows users):
First, uninstall your current version of Acrobat Reader.
1. Click the start menu and right click Acrobat Reader DC.
2. From the menu that pops up, select Uninstall to access the Programs and Features control panel.
3. Select Adobe Acrobat Reader DC from the list of programs and click Uninstall from the top to start the uninstall process.
4. Follow the windows prompts until the software uninstalls.
Second, Download and install a previous version of Acrobat Reader from Adobe.
1. Open a Windows Explorer/File Explorer window (press Win+E).
2. Click to select the Address bar.
If the Address bar isn't visible in Windows XP, choose View > Address Bar3. In the address bar type the address of Adobe's software storage:
ftp://ftp.adobe.com/pub/adobe/reader/win/
for windows, or
ftp://ftp.adobe.com/pub/adobe/reader/mac/
for mac, and press enter.
Note: This is a Windows Explorer/File Explorer window not a browser window.
4. You should be presented with a file structure of previous versions of Reader.
We have identified that the problem does not occur if you use AcrobatDC 2001320064.
If you wish to download and install this version, open the ReaderDC folder, then open the 2001320064 folder and copy the file AcroRdrDC2001320064_en_US.exe to your computer by dragging it onto your desktop (or other location). This is the english language version, other versions are available.
5. Once the file is downloaded onto your computer, double click the file to start the installation, and follow the Adobe prompts.
Don't forget, you will need to follow the setup checklist again with your new software:
What should I check before using Ftax? (Ftax Setup Checklist)
If Acrobat Reader updates to the latest version and Adobe have not fixed this problem, you will need to follow this process again.
If you have any problems uninstalling Acrobat Reader, Adobe have produced a tool called AcroCleaner to help:
https://www.adobe.com/devnet-docs/acrobatetk/tools/Labs/cleaner.html
- HMRC Exclusions: What should I do if my SA100 tells me that I'm affected by one?
There are a few tax circumstances where the HMRC tax calculation gives an incorrect amount of tax due.
These vary from year to year, as problems are fixed and new ones arise.
HMRC publishes a set of Exclusions which define these circumstances and give a recommended workaround (commonly, the workaround is to submit a return on paper).
If your tax return fits into one of these categories, you will be alerted when you calculate your tax and the workaround will be suggested. Ftax will not prevent you from submitting the incorrect data, but your return may be rejected by HMRC, or you may be paying the wrong amount of tax if you do.
HMRC have stated:
"Where a personal return cannot be filed online for a reason listed below [an Exclusion] , provided that a paper return is delivered on or before 31st January following the end of the tax year to which the return relates, HMRC will accept that the taxpayer had a reasonable excuse for failing to file a paper return by the normal 31st October deadline. A reasonable excuse claim should accompany the paper return."
- What is HMRC Exclusion 105?
There is a mistake in HMRC's calculation for a number of tax payers with incoming Marriage Allowance Transfers.
HMRC have stated the following:
HMRC Exclusion 105
For most customers MAT_IN is retained and the SA tax calculator correctly re-allocates reliefs and allowances to be
able to do so. However, for customers who have dividend income that is in the nil band that would otherwise be
taxable at both basic rate and higher rate the Marriage Allowance transfer amount of £238.00 (£1,190 x 20%) is not
retained when the calculator should be allocating allowances to reduce dividend income in that would be in the basic
and higher rate band were it not for the dividend allowance nil band.
An example is a customer with MAT_IN, Employment (EMP1) £50,495, Savings (INC2) £45, Dividends (INC4) £997 and
Gift Aid £4,145 (£5,945 gross). The MAT_IN is disallowed and the SA tax calculator sets PA £11,850 against non-savings.
The liability is £7,729.00. By setting PA £997 against the dividend income MAT_IN is retained and the liability is
£7,690.40, a difference of £38.60.
Note that for MAT_IN to be retained there can be no dividend income in the higher rate or in the higher rate nil band.
However, there can be savings income in the higher rate nil band (but none in the higher rate). In this example there is
£5 in the higher rate nil band.
The number of customers affected is tbc
The maximum a customer will have overpaid as a result of this is MAT_IN £1,190 x 20% £238.00 minus amount of PA re-
allocated to dividends x 20%. In this example that is £238.00 minus £199.40 (£997 x 20%) = £38.60.In these circumstances a paper return should be filed.
The Ftax SA100 identifies and alerts customers affected when you click Calculate. If you are affected it is recommended that you file a paper return.
- How do I complete the SA100 Marriage Allowance section?
A couple who are married or in a civil partnership may be able to transfer some unused Personal Allowance from one partner to another.
This process must be initiated by the partner transferring the allowance OUT (usually the lower or non taxpayer) to their partner.
The partner receiving the extra allowance has had a transfer IN from their partner.
The process must be done directly with HMRC either via their website https://www.gov.uk/marriage-allowance or by telephone.
The person transferring their allowance OUT will need to supply their partner's full name, National Insurance number, date of birth and date of marriage or civil partnership.Once HMRC has accepted the transfer, they will automatically apply the change in tax to both partners' tax accounts.
In order for the Ftax SA100 to accurately calculate your tax due, you should record transfers (both OUT and IN) on page TR5 of the Self Assessment tax return.
If you have transferred a Personal Allowance to your spouse or civil partner, then tick Transfer OUT and complete boxes 1 to 5.If a Personal Allowance is being transferred to you, then simply tick Transfer IN. Do NOT complete boxes 1 to 5.
Please note that a Transfer IN will only affect your tax calculation if you are not a Higher Rate tax payer and both your Married Couples Allowance and Married Couples Surplus Allowance are zero.
- Where on the SA100 do I enter Class 1 and 2 NIC details, and why?
Class 1 and Class 2 National Insurance details need to be entered into the Ftax SA100 in order to correctly calculate your tax liability.
If you are self-employed or a partner and your combined profits exceed £6,475 (for 2020/21) and you have worked the full year, you will likely need to enter £159 (for 2020/21) in one of the Class 2 NI boxes.
Please note that payment of Class 1 and 2 National Insurance is not made via this self-assessment process.
Class 1 National Insurance
Class 1 National Insurance is based on your total earnings from Employment and Ministers of Religion sections, between the Primary Threshold (PT) and the Upper Earnings Limit (UEL). These details can be found on your P60.
The information must be entered into boxes on the Employment (page E1) and Ministers of Religion (page MoR1) sections of the Ftax SA100. Next to the boxes, there is a red question mark which will provide an example of how to find the relevant on your P60.
The Total NICable earnings are shown on page TR8.
Class 2 National Insurance
Class 2 National Insurance contributions are not calculated by the Ftax SA100 - they must be entered into one or more of the Self Employment (pages SES2 and SEF5), Lloyds Underwriters (page LU4) and Partnership (pages SP2 and FP2) sections of the form.
The Total Class 2 NIC are shown on page TR8.
Note 1: If you have completed any of the above sections, and your "Total Profit Less Adjustments Used For Class4 And Class2" is over the "Class 2 NIC Small Profit Threshold" (£6,475 for 2020/21), then you will likely have to pay Class 2 contributions. If you leave all the data entry boxes blank in these circumstances, then you will be warned that you might have made an error when you click Calculate on the front page.
If you do need to enter a zero figure, simply enter 0 (zero) into one of the relevant boxes. Most people over the state pension age should enter a zero figure in one of the boxes.
Note 2: If you do have to make Class 2 contributions, they will likely be £3.05 per week (£159 for a whole year) or £3.70 (£193 for a whole year) for Share fishermen, in 2020/21, but in any case should not exceed £196.10 in total (in 2020/21).
If you have been Self Employed, a Lloyds Underwriter or in a Partnership, for less than the whole year (for example, because you started part way through the year, or have reached state pension age during the year), then you will likely have paid less than a whole year's contributions. In this case you should enter your reduced figure into the relevant box(es).
Note 3: If you have made voluntary Class 2 contributions, there is a tick box next to the Class 2 NI box which you should tick (in addition to entering the amount).
New Class 2 NIC rule
The rules for Class 2 NIC have changed for the 2023/23 tax year onwards.
Prior to the 2022/23 tax year you needed to pay Class 2 NIC if your profits were above the Small Profits Threshold, which was £6,515 in the 2021/22 tax year.
For 2022/23 onwards, you pay Class 2 NIC if your profits are above the Lower Profits Limit,(which is £11,908 in 2022/23). If your profits are below the Small Profits Threshold (£6,725 in 2022/23) then you can choose to pay voluntary Class 2 NIC. If your profits from self-employment are between the Small Profits Threshold and the Lower Profits Limit then there is no Class 2 NIC to pay – instead you will be treated as making Class 2 NIC. This will mean you will be able to access entitlement to contributory benefits in the same way as if you had paid Class 2 NIC.
For 2023/24 onwards, the Lower Profits Limit will be the same amount as the personal allowance for income tax.You can find bookmarks to all the relevant National Insurance pages of the Ftax SA100 in the left hand bookmarks area.
- I am using the SA100/CT600 for the first time. How can I get help and guidance?
The video ‘How to use the Ftax SA100’ takes you through all of the mains steps needed to prepare and submit the SA100 tax return. Click here to watch.
The video ‘How to use the Ftax CT600’ takes you through all of the mains steps needed to prepare the CT600 tax return, along with required iXBRL attachments. Click here to watch. Further help can be found in the ‘iXBRL/CT600’ section of the FAQS.
If you are experiencing problems entering data in the Ftax SA100 or CT600 form, generating a Pdf Copy or iXBRL file, or submitting to HMRC, then you should attach the entire Ftax form with attachments to your Support Request. Cut and paste any error messages you receive into the support request message. This will help the Ftax Support team to respond much faster. Click here to send a Support Request.
- Why does the SA100 form tell me I have to file on paper after I have tried to calculate my tax liability?
The calculations performed by the SA100 mirror those published by HMRC precisely.
There are a few circumstances where the HMRC calculations do not result in the correct tax being calculated
HMRC has published details about the circumstances when this occurs and has stated that tax payers in these circumstances must file their return on paper. As such, you may find that after you click 'Calculate' the form alerts you that you fall into one of these categories and that you must file a paper return.
If this happens to you, you should seek advice from a qualified tax accountant able to perform the calculation for you and then file a paper tax return.
- New (April 2023) Class 2 NIC Rules
The rules for Class 2 NIC have changed for the 2023/23 tax year onwards.
Prior to the 2022/23 tax year you needed to pay Class 2 NIC if your profits were above the Small Profits Threshold, which was £6,515 in the 2021/22 tax year.
For 2022/23 onwards, you pay Class 2 NIC if your profits are above the Lower Profits Limit,(which is £11,908 in 2022/23). If your profits are below the Small Profits Threshold (£6,725 in 2022/23) then you can choose to pay voluntary Class 2 NIC. If your profits from self-employment are between the Small Profits Threshold and the Lower Profits Limit then there is no Class 2 NIC to pay – instead you will be treated as making Class 2 NIC. This will mean you will be able to access entitlement to contributory benefits in the same way as if you had paid Class 2 NIC.
For 2023/24 onwards, the Lower Profits Limit will be the same amount as the personal allowance for income tax.Further information on this is available from the Government website here:
https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/rates-and-allowances-national-insurance-contributions/rates-and-allowances-national-insurance-contributions
Ftax Company (CT600)
- How can the Ftax Company tax return be used to carry back trading losses?
Trading losses may be carried back to set against previous year profits by completing and submitting the current year Company tax return and Amending the previous year tax return as follows:
Complete the current year form:
1. Tick box 45, "Claim or relief affecting an earlier period".
2. Complete the Losses Worksheet including the Losses to Carry Back box.
3. Generate the iXBRL Computation file and reattach.
4. When the return is complete, submit as New (unless it is being amended).Update the previous year form:
1. Tick box 40, "A repayment is due for this return period".
2. Enter the corporation tax previously paid in box 595, "Tax already paid (and not already repaid)"
3. Complete the Losses Worksheet with the losses carried back amount entered in the Losses Brought Back box.
4. Regenerate the iXBRL Computation file and reattach to the return.
5. Resubmit the tax return as an Amended return.For a limited period, losses can be carried back two further years. Further details are given in the FAQ:
- Why is Acrobat Reader slow or Not Responding?
There appears to be a problem with the latest versions of Acrobat Reader 2021.001.20135 and 2021.001.20138 which causes Ftax forms to run slowly at times, or not to respond.
If you install a previous version of Acrobat Reader, this problem will be overcome.To install a previous version (Windows users):
First, uninstall your current version of Acrobat Reader.
1. Click the start menu and right click Acrobat Reader DC.
2. From the menu that pops up, select Uninstall to access the Programs and Features control panel.
3. Select Adobe Acrobat Reader DC from the list of programs and click Uninstall from the top to start the uninstall process.
4. Follow the windows prompts until the software uninstalls.
Second, Download and install a previous version of Acrobat Reader from Adobe.
1. Open a Windows Explorer/File Explorer window (press Win+E).
2. Click to select the Address bar.
If the Address bar isn't visible in Windows XP, choose View > Address Bar3. In the address bar type the address of Adobe's software storage:
ftp://ftp.adobe.com/pub/adobe/reader/win/
for windows, or
ftp://ftp.adobe.com/pub/adobe/reader/mac/
for mac, and press enter.
Note: This is a Windows Explorer/File Explorer window not a browser window.
4. You should be presented with a file structure of previous versions of Reader.
We have identified that the problem does not occur if you use AcrobatDC 2001320064.
If you wish to download and install this version, open the ReaderDC folder, then open the 2001320064 folder and copy the file AcroRdrDC2001320064_en_US.exe to your computer by dragging it onto your desktop (or other location). This is the english language version, other versions are available.
5. Once the file is downloaded onto your computer, double click the file to start the installation, and follow the Adobe prompts.
Don't forget, you will need to follow the setup checklist again with your new software:
What should I check before using Ftax? (Ftax Setup Checklist)
If Acrobat Reader updates to the latest version and Adobe have not fixed this problem, you will need to follow this process again.
If you have any problems uninstalling Acrobat Reader, Adobe have produced a tool called AcroCleaner to help:
https://www.adobe.com/devnet-docs/acrobatetk/tools/Labs/cleaner.html
- How does the Ftax Company tax return handle losses?
A company can offset a trading loss against other profits made in the same accounting period. Any remaining losses may then be offset against the total profits of the previous 12 months. Trading losses may also be carried forward to set against the trading profits of subsequent periods.
Following the 2021 budget, trade loss carry back has been extended from the current 1 year entitlement to a period of 3 years, with losses being carried back against later years first. This extension will apply to trading losses made by companies in accounting periods ending between 1 April 2020 and 31 March 2022. Further details are given here.
The Ftax Company forms may be used to manage losses in order to reduce tax liabilities and claim tax rebates. This is done via the tax returns themselves, a trading losses worksheet, and iXBRL Computation files produced by the forms.
Further details are given in this FAQ:
How can the Ftax Company tax return be used to carry back trading losses?
There are also boxes in the Company tax return to manage losses from UK property businesses, intangible fixed assets, loan relationships, and unquoted shares. Details can be provides in the Notes section on the Profits Worksheet page which will be included with in the iXBRL Computations file.
Further details on how to declare losses in the Company tax return are give here and in in the HMRC Notes. You are recommended to read this information as it is your responsibility to complete the tax return correctly in accordance with HMRC requirements.
- Can CT600 tax returns be submitted if their accounting periods end later than 31st March?
Initially, when purchasing in April, the Ftax CT600 will allow tax filing for accounting periods up to the March 31st just preceding that tax year.
HMRC usually update their CT600 tax filing requirements during September/October.
The Ftax CT600 will then be updated to allow tax filing for accounting periods up to the March 31st at the end of that tax year.
This upgrade is free so long as the tax year Ftax CT600 credits have been purchased.
The Ftax form itself will clearly state the latest accounting period end date that may be submitted using that form version.
- After submitting a CT600, I receive an error message. What does this mean and what should I do?
The following explains what the most common CT600 error messages mean and describes what to do:
"Code : 1607 Box Location : Computations : Information within the computations does not match that on the CT600"
This usually means that the Company Number in the iXBRL Accounts file does not exactly match the 8 digit Company Number in the CT600. To overcome the problem, add leading digits to the Company Number, e.g. 07654321, and then generate the iXBRL Accounts file again.
“Code : 3303 Box Location : Accounts : One of the Inline XBRL documents contains malformed xml. Please check the attachment and resubmit.”
“Code : 1605 Box Location : iXBRL : The attachment with the file name IR Format_1 is in an invalid format.”
One cause of this problem is the inclusion of a line featuring a DOCTYPE declaration, i.e. <..DOCTYPE …… >, near the start of the accounts file. Remove this line by opening the iXBRL Accounts file in a text editor (we recommend TextPad), deleting, and saving the file.
“Code : 3303 Box Location : Computations : One of the Inline XBRL documents contains malformed xml. Please check the attachment and resubmit.”
“Code : 1605 Box Location : iXBRL : The attachment with the file name IR Format_1 is in an invalid format.”Both of these error messages are due to problems with the format of the iXBRL Computations file, and probably mean that you are not using the latest version of the Ftax CT600, or you are not using the Ftax iXBRL Computations. Transfer your data to the latest version and generate the iXBRL Computations file again. Never Open and then Save iXBRL files as this may add extraneous information.
- Can I attach VT Software iXBRL computations to the Ftax form?
Yes, both VT Software iXBRL Computations and iXBRL Accounts work well with the Ftax forms.
- Can I continue to prepare accounts using a spreadsheet?
If you wish to continue using spreadsheets to prepare accounts then you can. The Ftax CT600 includes iXBRL Accounts tagging to convert your accounts data into iXBRL. Note: this is only included on the post 31st March 2015 ‘V3’ CT600 form, and is NOT included with the older ‘V2’ CT600.
Alternatively, you can use VT Final Accounts which will make it very easy for you to map the final accounting figures to the XBRL data standard to produce the iXBRL files.
- Can I convert from pdf to iXBRL?
- No. Ftax will generate the iXBRL computations file for you (but only if you are using the current ‘V3’ CT600). VT Final Accounts or the Hypercube service may also be used to generate the iXBRL accounts file for you.
- How can I generate an iXBRL Accounts file using the Ftax CT600?
Complete the ‘Accounts’ section at the back of the CT600 form (see the bookmarks on the left). Then return to the opening page, click the ‘iXBRL’ button, and select ‘iXBRL Accounts’.
An onscreen receipt should confirm success.
Clicking the Download button on this receipt will open your browser and take you to your Ftax Account homepage (you may need to log in en route).
From your account homepage, you will be able to download the most recently generated iXBRL accounts or iXBRL computations files.
We only retain the most recent of each type of file for you to download.
Your iXBRL Accounts, along with your iXBRL Computations file, must be attached to the Ftax CT600 form before submitting online to HMRC (click ‘Attachments’ towards the bottom of the Bookmarks on the left).
Be very careful not to save the iXBRL file after it has been opened into a browser, as this will corrupt the data. Instead save the file to your desktop before attaching it to the Ftax CT600.
- How can I generate an iXBRL Computations file using the Ftax CT600?
After completing the Ftax CT600 tax return and populating the ‘Profits’ and Capital Allowance’ worksheets, return to the front page. Click the ‘iXBRL’ button, and select ‘iXBRL Computations’.
An onscreen receipt should confirm success.
Clicking the Download button on this receipt will open your browser and take you to your Ftax Account homepage (you may need to log in en route).
From your account homepage, you will be able to download the most recently generated iXBRL accounts or iXBRL computations files.
We only retain the most recent of each type of file for you to download.
Your iXBRL Computations, along with your iXBRL Accounts file, must be attached to the Ftax CT600 form before submitting online to HMRC (click ‘Attachments’ towards the bottom of the Bookmarks on the left).
Be very careful not to save the iXBRL file after it has been opened into a browser, as this will corrupt the data. Instead save the file to your desktop before attaching it to the Ftax CT600.
- How do I submit CT600s when the accounting period is greater than 12 months?
If the accounting period is greater than 12 months then more than one CT600 submission will be required, as each can only be used to submit for up to 12 months. Attach the iXBRL Accounts file only to the first submission, and select the 'PoA differs from AP-a/cs with sep rtn' option for all other returns.
Further guidance on how to deal with computations for long accounting periods can be found in the HMRC guidance document:
- How much will iXBRL cost?
Ftax have introduced iXBRL Computations and iXBRL Accounts tagging at no extra cost. For those who only file a few company tax returns every year there is a low usage CT600 package options.
- I am using the SA100/CT600 for the first time. How can I get help and guidance?
The video ‘How to use the Ftax SA100’ takes you through all of the mains steps needed to prepare and submit the SA100 tax return. Click here to watch.
The video ‘How to use the Ftax CT600’ takes you through all of the mains steps needed to prepare the CT600 tax return, along with required iXBRL attachments. Click here to watch. Further help can be found in the ‘iXBRL/CT600’ section of the FAQS.
If you are experiencing problems entering data in the Ftax SA100 or CT600 form, generating a Pdf Copy or iXBRL file, or submitting to HMRC, then you should attach the entire Ftax form with attachments to your Support Request. Cut and paste any error messages you receive into the support request message. This will help the Ftax Support team to respond much faster. Click here to send a Support Request.
- What is iXBRL?
XBRL is a global standard for exchanging business information (written in XML). iXBRL is an HMRC standard which enables XBRL to be displayed in a browser in a user friendly format (written in HTML).
- What should I check before submitting? (iXBRL Checklist)
Before submitting CT600s please check the following:
- Both iXBRL Accounts and iXBRL Computation file must be attached just before submission. (note : attachments are not currently saved with the CT600 when 'Save' is clicked).
- Use Ftax iXBRL Computations, although VT Software Computations should also work.
- Never Open and then Save iXBRL files in anything other than a text editor, as this may add extraneous data. Be very careful not to open an iXBRL file into a browser and click Save, as this will corrupt the iXBRL data.
- Each iXBRL attachment filename must end in '.html'. Re-edit if the file ends in ' .htm ' .
- Attachment filenames must NOT include any spaces, underscores, or dashes.
- The iXBRL Account and Computation files must have DIFFERENT filenames.
- The Company Number in the iXBRL Accounts file must be the same as that in the CT600, and feature 8 digits. You may have to add leading digits to this value when compiling the iXBRL Accounts file. Failure to do so will result in Error code 1606 being returned.
- Make sure you are using the LATEST Ftax forms. If Error Code 3303 has been returned then you need to download the latest version and transfer data using Export and Import. Regenerate and attach the iXBRL Computations.
- Read the " After submitting I receive an error message." FAQ to identify the solution to other common problems.
- If the profit is zero (box 3), make sure the worksheet has been open and closed, and the ‘Calculate Tax’ button has been clicked. This will propagate the necessary ‘0.00’ values throughout the form.
Compliance with the above will resolve most iXBRL tax filing issues. But if you are still experiencing problems please email your form to support@ftax.co.uk along with the iXBRL Computations and iXBRL Accounts files, and the error message.
- What steps must I take to submit a Company Tax Return (CT600) online to HMRC using Ftax?
- Prepare the company accounts - Ftax does not carry out this service, but recommends VT Software. Alternatively, you may wish to prepare the accounts using spreadsheets, or other software packages.
- Complete the Ftax CT600 tax return - including the ‘Profits’ worksheet, and ‘Capital Allowances’ worksheets if necessary.
- Generate the iXBRL Computations file – click the ‘iXBRL’ button at the bottom left of the opening page of the form and select ‘iXBRL Computations’. An email will be returned with the iXBRL Computations file attached. Drag, or download this onto your desktop or any known location.
- Generate the iXBRL Accounts file – the current ‘V3’ Ftax CT600 form includes an ‘Accounts’ section accessed via the bookmarks on the left. After completion, return to the opening page of the form, click the ‘iXBRL’ button, and select ‘iXBRL Accounts’. Once again, drag or download the attached file from the returned email to a known location on your computer. Note: the older Ftax ‘V2’ CT600 does not include iXBRL Accounts tagging (VT Software or the Hypercube service are recommended).
- Attach the iXBRL files to the CT600 form – go to the ‘Attachments’ page via the bookmarks on the left. Click the ‘Attach’ buttons and select the iXBRL Accounts and Computations files from their known locations. If iXBRL files are not attached then reasons must be selected from the dropdown lists.
- Submit the CT600 online to HMRC – click Submit/I Agree/Submit Now/Yes via the opening page. An onscreen receipt followed by two emails should confirm the outcome.
- Submit the iXBRL Accounts file to Company House – this must be done manually via their website. Ftax does not do this for you.
- What will I have to learn about iXBRL?
Nothing, if you use VT Final Accounts and/or the Ftax CT600, all of the iXBRL will be done for you behind the scenes.
- Which CT600 form shall I download and use?
There are two versions of the HMRC CT600 form; the ‘v2’ version and the ‘v3’ version.
If your company accouting period starts on or before the 31st March 2015 then the ‘v2’ version must be used. Please purchase any of the 2015 Ftax Agent Company packages if you are an agent, or the Ftax Company 2015 if you are not. The ‘v2’ Ftax CT600 form file names will begin ‘CTRpre2015_’.
Otherwise the ‘v3’ version must be used, whatever the size of the company. Please purchase any of the latest Ftax Agent Company packages if you are an agent, or the Ftax Company if you are not.
- Why isn't my pdfcopy or iXBRL file emailed to me anymore?
As part of our ongoing security improvements and our response to the General Data Protection Regulations (GDPR), we have altered the way we deliver these files.
The files are still created by our servers, but now we need you to login to your Ftax Account and download them using your computer's browser.
The form has a new 'Download' button on the green receipt page that displays when you create the file:
Clicking the Download button will open your browser and take you to your ftax account homepage (you may need to log in en route).
From your account homepage, you will be able to download the most recently generated pdfcopy, iXBRL accounts or iXBRL computations files.
NOTE: We only retain the most recent of each type of file for you to download.
If you do not click the Download button on the form and you have received an email informimg you that your file has been created, you can still access it by logging into your Ftax Account at https://ftax.co.uk/.
Ftax Partnership (SA800)
- Why is Acrobat Reader slow or Not Responding?
There appears to be a problem with the latest versions of Acrobat Reader 2021.001.20135 and 2021.001.20138 which causes Ftax forms to run slowly at times, or not to respond.
If you install a previous version of Acrobat Reader, this problem will be overcome.To install a previous version (Windows users):
First, uninstall your current version of Acrobat Reader.
1. Click the start menu and right click Acrobat Reader DC.
2. From the menu that pops up, select Uninstall to access the Programs and Features control panel.
3. Select Adobe Acrobat Reader DC from the list of programs and click Uninstall from the top to start the uninstall process.
4. Follow the windows prompts until the software uninstalls.
Second, Download and install a previous version of Acrobat Reader from Adobe.
1. Open a Windows Explorer/File Explorer window (press Win+E).
2. Click to select the Address bar.
If the Address bar isn't visible in Windows XP, choose View > Address Bar3. In the address bar type the address of Adobe's software storage:
ftp://ftp.adobe.com/pub/adobe/reader/win/
for windows, or
ftp://ftp.adobe.com/pub/adobe/reader/mac/
for mac, and press enter.
Note: This is a Windows Explorer/File Explorer window not a browser window.
4. You should be presented with a file structure of previous versions of Reader.
We have identified that the problem does not occur if you use AcrobatDC 2001320064.
If you wish to download and install this version, open the ReaderDC folder, then open the 2001320064 folder and copy the file AcroRdrDC2001320064_en_US.exe to your computer by dragging it onto your desktop (or other location). This is the english language version, other versions are available.
5. Once the file is downloaded onto your computer, double click the file to start the installation, and follow the Adobe prompts.
Don't forget, you will need to follow the setup checklist again with your new software:
What should I check before using Ftax? (Ftax Setup Checklist)
If Acrobat Reader updates to the latest version and Adobe have not fixed this problem, you will need to follow this process again.
If you have any problems uninstalling Acrobat Reader, Adobe have produced a tool called AcroCleaner to help:
https://www.adobe.com/devnet-docs/acrobatetk/tools/Labs/cleaner.html
- How can I submit an SA800 with more than one accounting period?
If there is more than one accounting period to be included in the partnership tax return, then the main return should be completed with details for the latest accounting period. Details of other accounting periods should be submitted as attachments to this form.
This can be done by completing further copies of Ftax SA800 form, and using the Pdf Copy feature to generate the simple pdfs. Note that in the case of a construction industry trade with more than one accounting period, all subcontractor tax deducted should be shown in box 3.97.
- How can I submit an SA800 with more than one trade?
If there is more than one trade to be included in the partnership tax return, then the trade with the largest turnover should be entered on the form. Other trades must be submitted as pdf attachments to this return. This can be done by completing further copies of Ftax SA800 form, and using the Pdf Copy feature to generate the simple pdfs. Each additional trade attachment must include the Partnership Statement.
Ftax Trust (SA900)
- Why is Acrobat Reader slow or Not Responding?
There appears to be a problem with the latest versions of Acrobat Reader 2021.001.20135 and 2021.001.20138 which causes Ftax forms to run slowly at times, or not to respond.
If you install a previous version of Acrobat Reader, this problem will be overcome.To install a previous version (Windows users):
First, uninstall your current version of Acrobat Reader.
1. Click the start menu and right click Acrobat Reader DC.
2. From the menu that pops up, select Uninstall to access the Programs and Features control panel.
3. Select Adobe Acrobat Reader DC from the list of programs and click Uninstall from the top to start the uninstall process.
4. Follow the windows prompts until the software uninstalls.
Second, Download and install a previous version of Acrobat Reader from Adobe.
1. Open a Windows Explorer/File Explorer window (press Win+E).
2. Click to select the Address bar.
If the Address bar isn't visible in Windows XP, choose View > Address Bar3. In the address bar type the address of Adobe's software storage:
ftp://ftp.adobe.com/pub/adobe/reader/win/
for windows, or
ftp://ftp.adobe.com/pub/adobe/reader/mac/
for mac, and press enter.
Note: This is a Windows Explorer/File Explorer window not a browser window.
4. You should be presented with a file structure of previous versions of Reader.
We have identified that the problem does not occur if you use AcrobatDC 2001320064.
If you wish to download and install this version, open the ReaderDC folder, then open the 2001320064 folder and copy the file AcroRdrDC2001320064_en_US.exe to your computer by dragging it onto your desktop (or other location). This is the english language version, other versions are available.
5. Once the file is downloaded onto your computer, double click the file to start the installation, and follow the Adobe prompts.
Don't forget, you will need to follow the setup checklist again with your new software:
What should I check before using Ftax? (Ftax Setup Checklist)
If Acrobat Reader updates to the latest version and Adobe have not fixed this problem, you will need to follow this process again.
If you have any problems uninstalling Acrobat Reader, Adobe have produced a tool called AcroCleaner to help:
https://www.adobe.com/devnet-docs/acrobatetk/tools/Labs/cleaner.html
FTAX WEB FORMS
- Does the new Web form look and feel like the old one?
Yes, in that the new SA100 Web form still looks very similar to the HMRC form.
- Is the new form easy to use?
Yes, as the new SA100 Web form does not need to be set up or logged in to your Ftax Account. The submission process is also easier to follow. Otherwise it works in a similar way to previously.
- Will my existing tax filer data still be accessible?
Yes. All data currently held on the Ftax servers will continue to be available.
- When will the other Ftax forms become Web forms?
The Ftax team intend to move all Ftax forms to the Web form format over the next two years. The CT600 Company tax return will be next.
- Will the same SA100 credit work with both the Web form and the PDF form?
Yes. When an SA100 credit is allocated against a UTR for a given year, it will work with both the PDF and Web form.
- What data can be imported into the new Web forms?
Any data from the previous year Ftax PDF form may be imported into the new SA100 Web form. In future, previous year Web form data may be imported into the current year Web form. Data may also be forwarded from the current PDF SA800 and Cashbooks into the SA100 Web form.
- Will you provide training videos and guides to ease the transition?
Yes. A series of videos, guides and FAQs will be made available.
- Can I still use the old PDF form?
Yes. The new Ftax SA100 Web form will initially be available alongside the old PDF version. You may use either version but we advise you to migrate to the Web form version as soon as you are able. The Ftax SA100 PDF will be automatically available from April 2023. If you need the PDF form, please create a support ticket.
HMRC Information
- What must I do to sign up to MTD VAT? (Non-agent MTD step-by-step guide)
Step 1: Visit https://www.tax.service.gov.uk/vat-through-software/sign-up/software-ready. Click ‘Yes’, (as all of the Ftax (MTD) VAT packages or the Ftax (MTD) Cashbook packages submit VAT through MTD), and then ‘Continue’.
Step 2 : Click ‘Sign up’, enter your Government Gateway credentials, and then click ‘Sign in’. Once signed up to use MTD you cannot return to the previous method to submit VAT. If your business is not yet eligible to join, a message will appear to advise this.
If your business pays by Direct Debit then you need to sign up at least 7 working days before you need to submit.
Step 3: Follow the on-screen prompts and provide any requested information, including your email address.
Step 4: When you receive a verification email, click the link to verify your email address. Read and accept the terms of participation. HMRC will then confirm if you can start submitting VAT Returns under MTD. This confirmation usually occurs within 24 hours.
You must wait for the confirmation email from HMRC before to attempt to use the MTD software.
If you do not recieve a confirmation email from HMRC After 72 hours, you should report this to HMRC.
Step 5: After purchasing an Ftax MTD VAT package you must authorise the Ftax service to submit VAT returns using MTD. This is done by first logging into your Ftax Account and selecting the ‘Click here to Authorise Ftax’ link. You should then be prompted to ‘Continue’, to log into to your HMRC account using your existing Government Gateway User ID and password, and to click a ‘Grant authority’ button.
- As a tax agent what must I do to sign up to MTD? (Agent MTD step-by-step guide)
HMRC's Step-by-Step guide to Making Tax Digital (MTD) sign up
Before you begin:- Agents need to create an Agent services account, which provides the agent with the log in details required to access the VAT APIs. Agents will also need to use the link existing clients’ service, if they want to submit for a client who they have an existing relationship with in VAT.
- Businesses submitting their own VAT returns only need to complete steps 3 and 4. They can do this using existing Government Gateway (GG) ID if they have one OR they can set up a new one.
- Be prepared - once signed up to MTD returns MUST be submitted using MTD compatible software, don’t sign up unless you are ready.
- Where a business pays by Direct Debit and email address must be provided.
- Business that pay by Direct Debit have to sign up at least 15 working days before they need to submit.
Important: The role of the Business Tax Account (BTA)
- A business does not have to set up a BTA for an agent to link clients to the new ASA.
- A business does not have to set up a BTA to be signed up to MTD by an agent (the journey only requires them to validate an email address).
- A business does need to have a BTA set up to authorise a new agent relationship.
- Once a business is signed up to MTD, the BTA will be used to send them notifications to file and provide a view of their VAT returns, so whilst the journey itself does not require the business to sign up to BTA being in the service and interacting with HMRC digitally does.
Step 1 : Create agent services account (ASA)
- Before signing up to MTD you must first create an Agent Services Account (ASA). For guidance and to create an account go to: https://www.gov.uk/guidance/get-an-hmrc-agent-services-account
- You may already have an ASA if you’ve signed up for the Trust Registration Service (TRS), you do not need to create a new one for MTD.
- The ASA is currently only used for the TRS, MTD VAT and MTD Income Tax. The GG ID which is generated in this journey is the one you will use to access MTD services. You will still need your old GG IDs to access other HMRC online services.
Step 2: Copy existing agent/ client relationships
- Once the ASA is created, you can use the service to copy existing authorised SA and VAT relationships you already have with a business, by following the guidance to copy existing clients.
- The copy clients service is accessed from inside the ASA, once done you will see a ‘Client Relationships Copied’ message.
- This process requires you to input your existing GG IDs so that we can identify the relationship already exists.
- All the clients that exist under a specific GG ID are linked to the ASA (if you have multiple GG accounts you may need to repeat this step to link all of your clients).
Important: The client list cannot be viewed from within the ASA however you are now able to view the number of client relationship copied over from HMRC online services.
Step 3: Authorise MTD compatible software
- Before signing a client up to the pilot you must make sure you have compatible software, see: https://www.gov.uk/guidance/software-for-sending-income-tax-updates
- If using existing software you need to make sure your provider’s MTD capabilities have been enabled – contact your provider to discuss.
- You must delegate authority to the MTD compatible software (this applies to both new and existing software).
Important: Once signed up returns must be submitted using MTD compatible software. You cannot use the previous channel.
Step 4 : Sign business up to Making Tax Digital (MTD)
- Using the new GG ID generated at step 1, you can sign up clients by going to: https://www.gov.uk/guidance/agents-use-software-to-submit-vat-returns
- You will receive confirmation that the client’s information has been received. We will email you (usually within 24 hours, but can take up to 72 hours) confirming you can start using MTD software to submit the client’s return.
- You should tell your client you are now submitting returns through Making Tax Digital.
- Each client needs to be signed up individually or the client can sign themselves up.
Important: For an Agent, when connecting software to HMRC you must use your new ASA GG ID (provided at step 1). If you attempt to log in with another GG ID our systems will not be able to recognise the MTD relationship with your client so you will receive an error message and be unable to file the return.
For more information on Making Tax Digital go to GOV.UK and type ‘Making Tax Digital for VAT’ into the search bar
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