CISR61060 - Monthly returns: overview: electronic returns

The options

There are three methods by which a return might be filed electronically: 

  • using the internet at www.hmrc.gov.uk/cis, or
  • by Electronic Data Interchange (EDI), or
  • by independent third party software.

Returns filed through the HMRC website

Contractors who wish to file on line must sign in to use this service. This is an on-line registration programme which then permits a user to access and file returns for self-assessment, End of Year or CIS over the internet.

Returns filed by Electronic Data Interchange (EDI)

EDI is the transfer of data from an application running on the computer of one organisation to an application running on the computer of another organisation, with no manual intervention.

There is an action guide at CISR62660 where you can find more information about EDI.

Returns filed by independent third party software

If the preferred method of contact is electronically using independent third party software, no paper returns will be issued.

Users must similarly be registered online to file through an independent third party software provider.

An information pack to providers is available at www.hmrc.gov.uk/ebu/cis-reform.htm.