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

FeatureIRISTinyTax
Target userAccountantsDirectors/small businesses
PricingAnnual subscriptionFree (micro-entities)
CT600 filing
Company accounts
HMRC submission
PlatformDesktopWeb-based
Multi-client managementLimited
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 TypePrice
Micro-entityFree
Small companyFrom £49 + VAT
For a company filing once a year, the savings can be significant.

Do You Qualify for Free Filing?

TinyTax is free for micro-entities. You qualify if you meet at least 2 of 3:

ThresholdLimit
Turnover≤ £1,000,000
Balance sheet total≤ £500,000
Employees≤ 10
Most small limited companies qualify.

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

  1. Sign up at TinyTax
  2. Add your company
  3. 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
For a single company filing its own return, these aren't needed.

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 SituationRecommendation
Single company, micro-entityTinyTax (free)
Small company, DIY filingTinyTax
Accountant with clientsIRIS
Need personal taxIRIS
Need practice managementIRIS

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.