If you receive this error message it means that either the downloaded file is corrupt or it contains special characters that HMRC can't read.
Corrupt file
If you opened the downloaded file and then used File > Save As, it might be corrupt. The correct way to save a downloaded file is to convert it through your browser as follows:
- Download the file using your normal browser and save it in your Downloads folder:
- Internet Explorer: click on Save
- Chrome: saves automatically
- Firefox: click on Save
- Go to your Downloads folder using the relevant shortcut:
- Windows: Ctrl + J
- Mac Chrome: Cmd + Shift + J
- Mac Firefox: Cmd + J
- Mac Safari: Cmd + Option + J
- Copy/cut and paste the file from the Downloads folder into your desired location.
- Attach the accounts.
Special characters
Change any special characters so that HMRC can read the file. For example, change café to cafe.
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