Short answer
Confirm that the correct accounts version is finalised and that the filing/export step has generated the iXBRL output. Validation should also be available before the filing is treated as ready.
What to check
- Open the correct client and accounting period.
- Confirm the intended accounts version is finalised.
- Open the filing or export area and check for the generated iXBRL files or pack.
- Confirm the validation step has run and review its result.
- If the finalised version has no expected artifacts, report the client and period to support.
Do not rebuild the accounts as a workaround
Missing filing artifacts should be investigated as an output or finalisation issue. Avoid re-keying the same statutory accounts in another workflow merely to create a file.
Useful support information
Provide the client, period, reporting framework, finalised version and what files or validation evidence are missing.
Why iXBRL files matter
iXBRL (Inline XBRL) is the tagged electronic format Companies House accepts for accounts filed through software, and HMRC requires accounts in iXBRL alongside a company tax return. The file is a human-readable document with machine-readable tags from the FRC taxonomy.
Because the iXBRL file is produced from the finalised accounts, it will not exist, or will be out of date, if the wrong version is finalised or the accounts were changed after finalisation. Checking the version first usually explains the missing file.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need to finalise the accounts before the iXBRL file is produced?
Yes. Finalise the intended version of the accounts, then generate and validate the filing output from that version.
What if I change the accounts after finalising?
Reopen and re-finalise the accounts so the filing output is regenerated from the corrected version, then validate it again.
Is the same iXBRL file used for Companies House and HMRC?
Not always. Small companies often file filleted accounts at Companies House but must give HMRC the full accounts, so use the output intended for the filing you are making.