Side by side
HMRC Self Assessment online service vs VSTax
Both stand on tax software. Which one you can start free with, which one lets you read the code, and what each costs once you pay.
Free plan Web
This free HMRC service covers many individual Self Assessment returns and provides useful account and guidance features. Check its coverage limits before starting, especially for partnerships, trusts, estates, or non-resident returns.
Visit HMRC Self Assessment online service Free plan LinuxMacWindows
VSTax covers preparation, document capture, online filing, and post-submission corrections for Valais taxpayers. The 2026 cloud-storage change makes the QR workflow more important for mobile document handling.
Visit VSTaxThe facts
| HMRC Self Assessment online service | VSTax | |
|---|---|---|
| Free plan | Yes | Yes |
| Open source | Not published | Not published |
| Runs on | Web | Linux, Mac, Windows |
| Lowest paid plan | Free or on request | Free or on request |
| Plans published | 1 | 1 |
| Maker | Not published | Not published |
| Website | gov.uk | vs.ch |
| On tax software | #67 of 149 | #63 of 149 |
HMRC Self Assessment online service: what it does well
- Free online filing
- Supports self-employment, rental, and investment income
- Save and resume unfinished returns
- Includes tax guidance and calculations
- Available in Welsh
What to know first
- Does not cover partnerships or trusts
- Some cases require commercial software or forms
- Photo ID may be requested
- Phone waits can reach 45 minutes
VSTax: what it does well
- Free Valais tax-return software
- Imports prior-year VSTax data
- Online filing without printed attestation
- 15-day correction period after submission
- QR document import without an account
What to know first
- Tell Tax cloud storage ends from tax period 2026
- Offline printing is the fallback when disconnected
- Cantonal service disclaims liability for data loss
Alternatives to HMRC Self Assessment online service Alternatives to VSTax The whole list