VCM58085 - VCT: VCT returns: how to make a return of information under Regulation 22 and 22A

Returns made under Regulation 22 and 22A must be in a mandatory format. The return must be filed electronically using a free secure file transfer service, the Secure Data Exchange Services (SDES) system.

The VCT or nominated agent must apply to be enrolled for SDES. There is information about enrolling for and accessing SDES, and uploading a return file, on the following webpage: https://www.gov.uk/guidance/hmrc-secure-data-exchange-service-sdes

Where there has been a change of the VCT or agent user submitting the return, the SDES details must be amended. The new user will need to provide the Venture Capital Reliefs Team (VCR Team), with their name, address, contact details by either email or in writing, (see VCM2035 for contact details). The VCR Team will then update the SDES records. An agent authorised to act on the VCT’s behalf will also need to provide a signed copy of the VCT’S authorisation.

The new user will not be able to use SDES until the VCR Team has updated their contact details.

For advice on technical difficulties when using SDES, please contact the SDES support team by email at:

[email protected].

Return template overview

VCTs must use the template spreadsheet to complete the return. A new spreadsheet template should be downloaded for every new return.

The template has been created in an Open Document Source format. This can be opened and completed in a preferred spreadsheet programme. Please refer to the detailed guide on how to complete the spreadsheet.

The completed spreadsheet must be sent back to HMRC in Open Document Source format.

The format of the template must not be changed, for example by moving columns or changing headings. The data from the template will be exported to a central database which has been built to accept the data in the template format. If changes are made to the template format, or certain information is not included, we will not be able to export the data and we will ask the sender to submit a fresh return.

How to submit a return

Once the return spreadsheet is completed, it must be saved in Open Document Spreadsheet (ods) file format.

All returns must be saved with a file name in the following format:

hmrc_vct_r22_cccccccc_vv_yyyymmdd.ods

  • cccccccc (8 characters) is the Company Registration Number of the VCT; if the company is registered overseas and doesn’t have a CRN, enter overseas
  • vv is the version number of the submission for the given accounting period, i.e. 01 for your first submission and incremented for any subsequent/replacement submission for the same accounting period
  • yyyymmdd is the last date of the accounting period to which the data applies (and not the date the file is produced). For example, 20180331 refers to the accounting period ended on 31 March 2018.

Please ensure that the filename is entirely lowercase. Files that are not named in accordance with the above format will be rejected and the sender will be asked to resubmit the return.

The return must be sent to us using the Secure Data Exchange Services (SDES) system.