Filing your annual company tax return may not always be top of the to-do list but for businesses in Jersey, it’s essential. While many companies won’t have an income tax liability, every Jersey incorporated company or foreign company trading in Jersey through a branch is still required to submit a return. Here’s how to stay on top of your obligations, avoid common pitfalls, and make the most of available guidance.
This article covers key information on the Jersey income tax requirements for companies , how to prepare your company tax return online, and practical steps to keep your business compliant year after year.
How to file a Jersey company tax return
In Jersey, company tax returns are filed digitally through the Taxes Office Online Services (TOOS) portal. Every company incorporated in Jersey is required to submit an annual return, regardless of whether it has trading income or owes tax. Certain non-Jersey companies that trade in Jersey are also required to register with Revenue Jersey and file an annual tax return.
To access the portal and begin the process, your business must first activate income tax filing by registering for online services. You’ll need:
- A tax identification number (TIN)
- A tax reference
- A principal user authorised to submit returns
These are automatically issued after your company is incorporated with the Jersey Financial Services Commission. Revenue Jersey sends login details to your registered office.
Foreign incorporated companies with a taxable presence in Jersey are required to register with Revenue Jersey within six months of establishing a presence in Jersey and there are penalties for failing to register on time.
The company tax return contains numerous questions, such as confirming company details, disclosing income and profits, and reporting any relevant distributions or activities. There are also additional reporting requirements for large companies and companies impacted by Jersey’s economic substance rules.
Who needs to file a company tax return in Jersey?
All Jersey-incorporated companies must file a return – even if there’s no tax to pay. The Jersey corporate tax rate is typically 0%, but there are exceptions depending on the nature of your business activity.
The current rates are:
- 0% for most trading and investment companies
- 10% for certain regulated financial services companies
- 20% for utility companies such as gas, electric, or telecoms providers
- 0–20% sliding scale for large retailers with over £2 million in turnover:
- 0% if profits < £500,000
- Sliding from 0–20% if profits between £500,000–£750,000
- 20% if profits > £750,000
- 20% on income from:
- Hydrocarbon oils (importation/supply)
- Quarrying
- Jersey property development
- Jersey property rental income
This means that even if your company falls under the 0% bracket, you’re still expected to complete and submit a return each year.
If you operate a foreign company that either becomes Jersey tax resident, establishes a branch in Jersey or receives non-exempt income, you must notify Revenue Jersey within six months.
Tips to filing your Jersey tax return
We work with a range of clients – start-ups, small businesses, investment structures and regulated firms. Across the board, the same principles apply when it comes to effective, timely filing.
Here are our top tips for smooth small business tax filing in Jersey:
- Get registered early
If your company is newly incorporated, you’ll be automatically registered for tax. But foreign companies may need to notify Revenue Jersey about becoming liable to Jersey income tax.
- Understand your rate
Not all income is taxed equally. Double-check whether your business activities fall under financial services, property, or retail income thresholds before calculating the applicable Jersey corporate tax rate.
- Keep records ready
- The law requires accounting records to be maintained for a set time period. Financial statements must be submitted with tax returns, and in some cases tax computations are also recommended, particularly where the shareholders are Jersey resident individuals.
- Plan for deadlines
The current corporation tax filing deadline is midnight on 30 November of the year following your accounting period. So, for the 2024 tax year, the return must be submitted by 30 November 2025.
Key deadlines and penalties you must know
The company tax filing deadline in Jersey is:
- 30 November following the end of the relevant tax year
Missing this deadline can lead to late tax filing penalties in Jersey, including:
- £300 initial penalty
- £100 per month (up to £900 maximum)
Penalties apply whether or not your company owes tax. Submitting a return is a legal requirement for all registered companies, including those dormant or loss-making.
Where to get help with Jersey company tax returns
Even for experienced business owners, the process of managing a Jersey business tax return can feel technical. That’s especially true if you’re managing multiple entities, complex ownership structures, or regulated activities.
PKF BBA provides comprehensive company tax return support in Jersey.
You can also find support via:
To discuss your requirements or get expert support, contact Anthony Chandlen. We’re here to help you meet your filing obligations efficiently and accurately, whether you’re just starting out or managing complex portfolios.
FAQs
What happens if my company is dormant or made no profit?
You still need to submit a tax return. Jersey companies must declare their trading status each year, even if they have not traded or made a profit. This still applies to companies taxed at the standard 0% rate.Can a foreign company be required to file a Jersey return?
Yes. A company incorporated outside Jersey must notify Revenue Jersey within six months if it becomes resident or earns income from Jersey-based activities that are not exempt. This could trigger a requirement to submit a return and pay tax.
What Do These Terms Mean? Your Jersey Tax Glossary
Jersey’s company tax system often comes with its own language. If you’re new to filing or just want a refresher, here’s a quick glossary to help make sense of the terminology used in your company tax return online.
Tax Identification Number (TIN)
A unique number issued by Revenue Jersey to identify your company for tax purposes. You’ll need this to activate your online filing account.
Taxes Office Online Services (TOOS)
The secure digital platform used to file your annual corporate tax return in Jersey. You’ll need to be authorised to access your company’s account.
Jersey Corporate Tax Rate
The rate at which your business pays corporation tax in Jersey. Most companies are taxed at 0%, but some (such as financial services and property companies) may pay 10% or 20%.
Corporation Tax Declaration
Your formal annual submission to Revenue Jersey confirming your company’s income, trading status, and tax liability.
Principal User
The authorised person (often a director or company secretary) who is responsible for managing and submitting the company’s tax return through TOOS.
Register for Tax in Jersey
The process of notifying Revenue Jersey that your company has become tax-resident or now has income that is taxable in Jersey. For incorporated companies, this is usually done automatically at the time of registration.
Small Business Tax Filing
A term used to describe the filing obligations for smaller or non-trading companies. Even businesses with no income or minimal activity must file annually.
Foreign Company
Any company incorporated outside of Jersey. If it becomes resident or earns income in Jersey, it may need to notify Revenue Jersey and file a tax return.
Comptroller of Revenue
The official responsible for overseeing tax collection and enforcement in Jersey.
Tax Reference
A unique identifier assigned to your company by Revenue Jersey, used in correspondence and filings.
Economic Substance
A legal requirement for certain companies to demonstrate substantial activities in Jersey, including adequate staff, premises, and expenditure, to prevent profit shifting.
Permanent Establishment
A fixed place of business through which a company conducts its operations in Jersey, such as a branch or office. Foreign companies with a permanent establishment in Jersey may have tax obligations.
Accounting Period
The financial period for which a company prepares its accounts. In Jersey, the tax year aligns with the calendar year, but companies can have different accounting periods.
Dormant Company
A company that is registered but not currently trading. Even dormant companies are required to file annual tax returns in Jersey.