Skip to main content

Self-Filing Mode

Self-Filing Mode is designed for business owners who manage their own VAT compliance directly - without an accounting firm handling returns on their behalf.

What Is Self-Filing Mode?​

In Self-Filing Mode, you have full ownership of your VAT workflow:

  • You record transactions, review categorizations, and generate returns
  • You export and submit returns directly to the Department of Inland Revenue (DIR)
  • No firm access - your data is not visible to or managed by any external accounting firm

This is the default mode for businesses that sign up independently. If your business is later onboarded by an accounting firm, the firm will manage your compliance instead (Firm-Managed Mode).

Who should use Self-Filing Mode?
  • Solo business owners handling their own bookkeeping
  • Small businesses not using an external accountant
  • Businesses that want direct control over their VAT filings

How to Enable Self-Filing Mode​

Self-Filing Mode is enabled by default when you create a standalone business account. No additional configuration is needed.

Switching from firm-managed back to self-filing is not a self-service toggle today - your business settings show the managing firm as read-only. Ask the firm to release the engagement from their portal, or contact support@digitalcarib.com to change the filing arrangement. Firm access ends when the engagement is released.

Revoking Firm Access

Switching to Self-Filing Mode removes the accounting firm's ability to view or manage your data. Coordinate with your accountant before making this change.

Dashboard: Self-Filing vs Firm-Managed​

The dashboard looks slightly different depending on your filing mode.

Self-Filing Dashboard​

WidgetDescription
Compliance ScoreYour real-time A to F compliance grade
Next Filing DeadlineCountdown to your next return due date
Net VAT PositionCurrent period's VAT payable or refundable
Recent ActivityYour latest transactions and actions

The Quick Actions panel gives you direct access to:

  • Import transactions
  • Enter a new transaction
  • Generate VAT return
  • Export for external lodgement

Firm-Managed Dashboard​

When managed by a firm, the dashboard shows a read-only summary view. Filing actions (generate, submit, amend) are performed by the firm, not by you. The Quick Actions panel is replaced by a Firm Contact panel showing your assigned accountant.

Self-Filing Workflow​

Follow these steps each VAT period to complete your filing:

Step 1: Register Your Business​

Before your first filing, ensure your business is set up:

  1. Go to Settings > Business
  2. Enter your TIN (9 digits) and VAT number
  3. Set your filing frequency (monthly or quarterly)

See Set Up Your Business for full details.

Step 2: Enter Transactions​

Record all taxable activity for the period:

  • CSV Import - Upload exports from your accounting system via Import CSV
  • Manual Entry - Enter transactions one at a time via Manual VAT Entry

Review suggested VAT categorizations and correct any misclassifications before proceeding.

Step 3: Generate Your Return​

Once all transactions are entered:

  1. Go to VAT Returns
  2. Click Generate New Return
  3. Select the filing period
  4. Review the summary - output VAT, input VAT, and net position
  5. Address any compliance alerts before proceeding

CoralLedger Comply calculates all L1-L31 DIR form fields from your transaction data.

See Generate VAT Return for the full guide.

Step 4: Export for External Lodgement​

Export your completed return for submission through a current DIR lodgement channel:

  1. Open the generated return
  2. Click Export
  3. Choose your preferred format - PDF, XML, or Excel
  4. Submit the figures through a current DIR lodgement channel
XML Export

The XML export is a structured file of your return figures. You submit your return to the DIR yourself through a current lodgement channel. Use PDF for your own records and in-person filings.

When to Use Self-Filing Mode​

Use Self-Filing Mode if any of the following apply:

  • You are a sole trader or small business owner handling your own accounts
  • You do not have an accountant or are not currently working with an accounting firm
  • You prefer direct control over your VAT filings and submission timing
  • You are learning VAT compliance before engaging a professional

If your business grows or you engage an accounting firm, the firm onboards your business from its Firm Portal and takes over filing management from that point.

Next Steps​