Short answer
Choose scanning if you mainly need to read and act on letters quickly — you get a PDF the day it arrives. Choose forwarding when you need physical originals, such as bank cards, certificates or signed contracts. Many customers use both.
Comparison
| Mail scanning | Mail forwarding | |
|---|---|---|
| Speed | Same day, by email | Depends on postal service |
| Best for | HMRC and Companies House letters, invoices | Cards, certificates, originals |
| Works from abroad | Yes, instantly | Yes, international postage applies |
| Price | Included on Basic and Standard | £4.99/month, free on Standard |
Why scanning matters for compliance
Statutory deadlines run from the date correspondence is issued, not the date it reaches you. Same-day scanning means faster response from HMRC and clients and no missed filing or penalty notices sitting in an envelope.
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Last reviewed 2026-08-07. General information, not legal advice.