| Overview |
All BrightTax returns open in read-only mode by default. To make changes to a return — entering figures, adding schedules, or adding notes — you must switch to Edit mode. This protects data from accidental changes and ensures that only one user can edit a return at a time.
| ✔ Edit mode support has been rolled out across all BrightTax return types: Individual Tax Returns, Partnership Tax Returns, and VAT Returns from 17 July 2026; Corporation Tax Returns and Accounts Production from 23–24 July 2026. |
| How to Switch to Edit Mode |
- Open the return in BrightTax.
- Locate the Edit / Read Only toggle in the bottom-left corner of the return screen.
- Click the toggle to switch from Read Only to Edit mode.
- The return fields become active and editable.
- When you have finished making changes, save the return.
- Switch back to Read Only mode to release the lock and allow other team members to edit.
| ✔ Tip: BrightTax locks a return to your user session while you are in Edit mode. Other team members can view the return in read-only mode but cannot edit it until you switch back to Read Only or save and exit. This prevents conflicting edits. |
| Which Fields Are Always Read-Only? |
Even in Edit mode, some fields remain grey and cannot be edited directly. These are calculated fields — their values are derived automatically from other entries on the return:
- Tax calculation totals — calculated from income and relief entries
- IRMark — generated automatically on submission
- System-generated reference numbers and dates
If a field appears grey and you believe it should be editable, check that you are in Edit mode and that the field is not a calculated output. If in doubt, contact BrightTax support.
| Edit Mode by Return Type |
| Return Type | Edit Toggle Available | Notes |
| Individual Tax Return (ITR) | ✔ From 17 July 2026 | All tax years |
| Partnership Tax Return (PTR) | ✔ From 17 July 2026 | All tax years |
| VAT Return | ✔ From 17 July 2026 | All periods |
| Corporation Tax Return (CT) | ✔ From 23 July 2026 | All tax years |
| Accounts Production (AP) | ✔ From 24 July 2026 | All periods |
| Frequently Asked Questions |
Q: I cannot find the Edit toggle — where is it?
A: The toggle is in the bottom-left corner of the return screen, below the navigation menu. If you cannot see it, scroll down or expand the left-hand pane.
Q: A colleague is in Edit mode and I need to make a change — what do I do?
A: Ask your colleague to save and switch back to Read Only mode. BrightTax will then allow you to switch to Edit mode. Alternatively, contact your BrightTax administrator — administrators can release a lock if required.
Q: Does switching to Edit mode affect the IRMark?
A: No. The IRMark is only generated or updated when the return is checked and calculated. Switching to Edit mode does not affect the IRMark providing you make no changes to the tax return.
Q: Can I print or export a return while it is in Edit mode?
A: Yes. Print and export functions are available in both Edit and Read Only modes.
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