IRIS Alternative: Simpler CT600 Filing for Small Companies
IRIS is powerful software, but it's often more than small companies need. If you're looking for a simpler, more affordable alternative, TinyTax might be the answer.
Why Look for an IRIS Alternative?
IRIS is designed for accountancy practices, which means:
- High cost - Priced for professionals, not small businesses
- Complex interface - Many features you won't use
- Training required - Learning curve for occasional users
- Desktop installation - Not accessible everywhere
TinyTax: A Simpler Approach
TinyTax is purpose-built for micro-entities and small companies:
- Free for micro-entities - No subscription fees
- Simple interface - Designed for non-accountants
- Web-based - Use on any device, anywhere
- Guided process - Plain English, step by step
Who Should Consider Switching?
TinyTax is ideal if you:
- File your own company's CT600 (not an accountant)
- Have a micro-entity or small company
- Want something simpler than practice software
- Prefer to avoid annual subscription costs
- Don't need accountant-specific features
Feature Comparison
| Feature | IRIS | TinyTax |
|---|---|---|
| Target user | Accountants | Directors/small businesses |
| Pricing | Annual subscription | Free (micro-entities) |
| CT600 filing | ✅ | ✅ |
| Company accounts | ✅ | ✅ |
| HMRC submission | ✅ | ✅ |
| Platform | Desktop | Web-based |
| Multi-client management | ✅ | Limited |
| Personal tax (SA100) | ✅ | ❌ |
| Practice management | ✅ | ❌ |
When IRIS Is Better
IRIS remains the better choice if you:
- Run an accountancy practice
- Manage many clients
- Need personal tax (SA100) filing
- Require practice management features
- Need advanced compliance tools
When TinyTax Is Better
TinyTax is better if you:
- File only your own company's return
- Are a micro-entity (free filing)
- Want simplicity over features
- Prefer web-based access
- Don't need accountant tools
Cost Comparison
IRIS Pricing
IRIS pricing is typically:
- Annual subscription model
- Per-license or per-module fees
- Often £500-1,000+ per year
- Additional costs for modules
TinyTax Pricing
| Company Type | Price |
|---|---|
| Micro-entity | Free |
| Small company | From £49 + VAT |
Do You Qualify for Free Filing?
TinyTax is free for micro-entities. You qualify if you meet at least 2 of 3:
| Threshold | Limit |
|---|---|
| Turnover | ≤ £1,000,000 |
| Balance sheet total | ≤ £500,000 |
| Employees | ≤ 10 |
Switching from IRIS
Step 1: Check If You Qualify
Most single-company directors qualify for free TinyTax filing if their company is a micro-entity.
Step 2: Gather Your Information
You'll need:
- Company number
- UTR (Unique Taxpayer Reference)
- Government Gateway credentials
- Previous year figures (TinyTax can fetch these)
Step 3: Create Your TinyTax Account
- Sign up at TinyTax
- Add your company
- Follow the guided filing process
Step 4: File Your Return
The process typically takes 20-30 minutes for straightforward returns.
What You Won't Miss
Moving from IRIS to TinyTax, you won't need:
- Desktop installation
- Annual updates to download
- Learning complex menus
- Practice management features
- Multi-client overhead
What You Might Miss
Be aware that TinyTax doesn't offer:
- Personal tax returns (SA100)
- Multi-client dashboards
- Practice management
- Payroll integration
- Advanced tax planning tools
Common Questions
Can TinyTax handle my return?
If you're a micro-entity or small company without complex group structures or specialist reliefs, yes.
Is the data secure?
TinyTax uses bank-level encryption and submits directly to HMRC's secure Gateway.
What about support?
TinyTax provides email support and comprehensive help articles. The interface is designed to be intuitive.
Can I go back to IRIS later?
Yes. Your HMRC records are yours regardless of which software you use.
Summary
| Your Situation | Recommendation |
|---|---|
| Single company, micro-entity | TinyTax (free) |
| Small company, DIY filing | TinyTax |
| Accountant with clients | IRIS |
| Need personal tax | IRIS |
| Need practice management | IRIS |
Try TinyTax Free
No subscription, no commitment. See if your company qualifies for free filing.
Start Your Free CT600 →
IRIS is a trademark of IRIS Software Group. This page compares alternatives and is not affiliated with IRIS.