{"id":24133,"date":"2025-11-06T14:02:57","date_gmt":"2025-11-06T14:02:57","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.simplybusiness.co.uk\/?post_type=knowledge&#038;p=24133"},"modified":"2026-04-20T11:38:25","modified_gmt":"2026-04-20T11:38:25","slug":"how-to-do-a-self-assessment-tax-return","status":"publish","type":"knowledge","link":"https:\/\/www.simplybusiness.co.uk\/knowledge\/self-assessment\/how-to-do-a-self-assessment-tax-return\/","title":{"rendered":"How to do a Self Assessment tax return online (step-by-step guide for the self-employed)"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If you\u2019re self-employed or run a small business, you\u2019ll probably need to complete a Self Assessment tax return each year.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">It might sound daunting, but once you understand what\u2019s involved \u2013 and when to do it \u2013 the process is straightforward.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">In this guide, we\u2019ll explain what a Self Assessment is, who needs to file one, and walk you through each step of completing and submitting your return.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-28f84493 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex has-2-columns\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li class=\"wp-block-list-item\"><a href=\"#what-is\">What is a Self Assessment tax return?<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"wp-block-list-item\"><a href=\"#who\">Who needs to file a Self Assessment?<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"wp-block-list-item\"><a href=\"#key-dates\">Key tax dates and deadlines<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"wp-block-list-item\"><a href=\"#before\">Before you start: what you\u2019ll need<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"wp-block-list-item\"><a href=\"#example\">Self Assessment example<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"wp-block-list-item\"><a href=\"#how-to-do\">How to do a Self Assessment tax return<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"wp-block-list-item\"><a href=\"#app\">How to use the HMRC app<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li class=\"wp-block-list-item\"><a href=\"#mistakes\">Common mistakes to avoid<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"wp-block-list-item\"><a href=\"#what-is-a-tax-return\">What is a tax return?<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"wp-block-list-item\"><a href=\"#guidance\">HMRC tax return guidance<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"wp-block-list-item\"><a href=\"#help\">Help if you\u2019re struggling to pay<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"wp-block-list-item\"><a href=\"#checklist\">Self Assessment \u2013 final checklist<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"wp-block-list-item\"><a href=\"#faqs\">FAQs<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-get-your-free-guide-on-completing-your-tax-return\"><strong>Get your free guide on completing your tax return<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Download your free in-depth guide to completing your self-employed tax return. Why not save it and refer back to the guide when filling in your Self Assessment?<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-buttons is-layout-flex wp-block-buttons-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-button\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link wp-element-button\" href=\"https:\/\/www.simplybusiness.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2025\/04\/how-to-do-a-self-employed-tax-return.pdf\">Download<\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"what-is\"><strong>What is a Self Assessment tax return?<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Self Assessment is HMRC\u2019s system for collecting income tax from people whose income isn\u2019t automatically taxed at source \u2013 for example, the self-employed, company directors, or landlords.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Instead of your tax being deducted through PAYE, you\u2019re responsible for reporting your income, expenses, and any other taxable earnings to HMRC once a year.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">You\u2019ll also need to complete a tax return if you have significant income from savings, investments, and <a href=\"https:\/\/www.simplybusiness.co.uk\/knowledge\/business-tax\/dividend-tax-simplified-a-guide-for-small-business-owners\/\" data-type=\"knowledge\" data-id=\"1377\">dividends<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"who\"><strong>Who needs to file a Self Assessment?<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">You\u2019ll usually need to complete a Self Assessment if you:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li class=\"wp-block-list-item\">earned more than \u00a31,000 as a sole trader in the last tax year<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"wp-block-list-item\">are a partner in a business partnership (by filling in a \u200b\u200b<a href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/publications\/self-assessment-partnership-tax-return-sa800\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\">SA800 Partnership Tax Return form<\/a>)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"wp-block-list-item\">receive rental income from property<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"wp-block-list-item\">own a limited company and pay yourself salary and dividends<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"wp-block-list-item\">have other untaxed income (for example, from investments, tips, or foreign income)<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">You can check if you need to file by using HMRC\u2019s online tool.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"splide is-variation-default wp-block-tenup-carousel\" data-wp-interactive=\"tenup\/carousel\" data-wp-context=\"{&quot;variation&quot;:&quot;default&quot;,&quot;options&quot;:{&quot;type&quot;:&quot;loop&quot;}}\" data-wp-init=\"actions.init\" data-wp-run=\"callbacks.maybeReInitialize\">\n\t<div class=\"splide__track\">\n\t\t<div class=\"wp-block-tenup-carousel__inner-container splide__list\">\n\t\t\t\n\n\n<div class=\"splide__slide wp-block-tenup-carousel-item\">\n\t<span aria-hidden=\"true\" style=\" \" class=\"wp-block-tenup-carousel-item__background has-background-dim has-background-dim-100\"><\/span>\n\t\t<div class=\"wp-block-tenup-carousel-item__content\">\n\t\t\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"771\" height=\"439\" src=\"https:\/\/www.simplybusiness.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2024\/08\/SB-UK_TaxPillarArticle_ST_200824_Infographic1_Carousel1_799567.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-24719\" style=\"object-fit:cover\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.simplybusiness.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2024\/08\/SB-UK_TaxPillarArticle_ST_200824_Infographic1_Carousel1_799567.png 771w, https:\/\/www.simplybusiness.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2024\/08\/SB-UK_TaxPillarArticle_ST_200824_Infographic1_Carousel1_799567.png?resize=768,437 768w, https:\/\/www.simplybusiness.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2024\/08\/SB-UK_TaxPillarArticle_ST_200824_Infographic1_Carousel1_799567.png?resize=150,85 150w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 771px) 100vw, 771px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\t<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n\n<div class=\"splide__slide wp-block-tenup-carousel-item\">\n\t<span aria-hidden=\"true\" style=\" \" class=\"wp-block-tenup-carousel-item__background has-background-dim has-background-dim-100\"><\/span>\n\t\t<div class=\"wp-block-tenup-carousel-item__content\">\n\t\t\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"771\" height=\"439\" src=\"https:\/\/www.simplybusiness.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2024\/08\/SB-UK_TaxPillarArticle_ST_200824_Infographic1_Carousel2_a81c5d.png\" alt=\"In the last year, were you a self-employed sole trader earning more than \u00a31,000 or a partner \nin a business partnership?\" class=\"wp-image-24705\" style=\"object-fit:cover\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.simplybusiness.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2024\/08\/SB-UK_TaxPillarArticle_ST_200824_Infographic1_Carousel2_a81c5d.png 771w, https:\/\/www.simplybusiness.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2024\/08\/SB-UK_TaxPillarArticle_ST_200824_Infographic1_Carousel2_a81c5d.png?resize=768,437 768w, https:\/\/www.simplybusiness.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2024\/08\/SB-UK_TaxPillarArticle_ST_200824_Infographic1_Carousel2_a81c5d.png?resize=150,85 150w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 771px) 100vw, 771px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\t<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n\n<div class=\"splide__slide wp-block-tenup-carousel-item\">\n\t<span aria-hidden=\"true\" style=\" \" class=\"wp-block-tenup-carousel-item__background has-background-dim has-background-dim-100\"><\/span>\n\t\t<div class=\"wp-block-tenup-carousel-item__content\">\n\t\t\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"771\" height=\"439\" src=\"https:\/\/www.simplybusiness.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2024\/08\/SB-UK_TaxPillarArticle_ST_200824_Infographic1_Carousel3_cfcd53.png\" alt=\"Yes? You need to complete a Self Assessment \n\nNo? You don\u2019t need to complete a Self Assessment\" class=\"wp-image-24706\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.simplybusiness.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2024\/08\/SB-UK_TaxPillarArticle_ST_200824_Infographic1_Carousel3_cfcd53.png 771w, https:\/\/www.simplybusiness.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2024\/08\/SB-UK_TaxPillarArticle_ST_200824_Infographic1_Carousel3_cfcd53.png?resize=768,437 768w, https:\/\/www.simplybusiness.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2024\/08\/SB-UK_TaxPillarArticle_ST_200824_Infographic1_Carousel3_cfcd53.png?resize=150,85 150w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 771px) 100vw, 771px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\t<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n\n<div class=\"splide__slide wp-block-tenup-carousel-item\">\n\t<span aria-hidden=\"true\" style=\" \" class=\"wp-block-tenup-carousel-item__background has-background-dim has-background-dim-100\"><\/span>\n\t\t<div class=\"wp-block-tenup-carousel-item__content\">\n\t\t\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"771\" height=\"439\" src=\"https:\/\/www.simplybusiness.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2024\/08\/SB-UK_TaxPillarArticle_ST_200824_Infographic1_Carousel4_13a4a2.png\" alt=\"Do you have untaxed incomefrom the following activities?\n\nrenting out a property \ntips and commission \nsavings, investments, and dividends\nforeign income\ngains made on cryptocurrency\" class=\"wp-image-24707\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.simplybusiness.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2024\/08\/SB-UK_TaxPillarArticle_ST_200824_Infographic1_Carousel4_13a4a2.png 771w, https:\/\/www.simplybusiness.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2024\/08\/SB-UK_TaxPillarArticle_ST_200824_Infographic1_Carousel4_13a4a2.png?resize=768,437 768w, https:\/\/www.simplybusiness.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2024\/08\/SB-UK_TaxPillarArticle_ST_200824_Infographic1_Carousel4_13a4a2.png?resize=150,85 150w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 771px) 100vw, 771px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\t<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n\n<div class=\"splide__slide wp-block-tenup-carousel-item\">\n\t<span aria-hidden=\"true\" style=\" \" class=\"wp-block-tenup-carousel-item__background has-background-dim has-background-dim-100\"><\/span>\n\t\t<div class=\"wp-block-tenup-carousel-item__content\">\n\t\t\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"771\" height=\"439\" src=\"https:\/\/www.simplybusiness.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2024\/08\/SB-UK_TaxPillarArticle_ST_200824_Infographic1_Carousel5_56bdbf.png\" alt=\"Yes? You need to complete a Self Assessment \n\nNo? You don\u2019t need to complete a Self Assessment\" class=\"wp-image-24708\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.simplybusiness.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2024\/08\/SB-UK_TaxPillarArticle_ST_200824_Infographic1_Carousel5_56bdbf.png 771w, https:\/\/www.simplybusiness.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2024\/08\/SB-UK_TaxPillarArticle_ST_200824_Infographic1_Carousel5_56bdbf.png?resize=768,437 768w, https:\/\/www.simplybusiness.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2024\/08\/SB-UK_TaxPillarArticle_ST_200824_Infographic1_Carousel5_56bdbf.png?resize=150,85 150w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 771px) 100vw, 771px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\t<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t<\/div>\n\t<div class=\"wp-block-tenup-carousel__controls\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"wp-block-tenup-carousel__navigation splide__arrows\">\n\t\t\t<button type=\"button\" class=\"wp-block-tenup-carousel__navigation-button wp-block-tenup-carousel__navigation-button--previous splide__arrow splide__arrow--prev\" >\n\t\t\t\t<span class=\"visually-hidden screen-reader-text\">\n\t\t\t\t\tPrevious\t\t\t\t<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t<svg xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" width=\"24\" height=\"24\" fill=\"none\" stroke=\"currentColor\" stroke-linecap=\"round\" stroke-linejoin=\"round\" stroke-width=\"2\" class=\"feather feather-chevron-left\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\"><path d=\"m15 18-6-6 6-6\"\/><\/svg>\t\t\t<\/button>\n\t\t\t<button type=\"button\" class=\"wp-block-tenup-carousel__navigation-button wp-block-tenup-carousel__navigation-button--next splide__arrow splide__arrow--next\" >\n\t\t\t\t<span class=\"visually-hidden screen-reader-text\">\n\t\t\t\t\tNext\t\t\t\t<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t<svg xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" width=\"24\" height=\"24\" fill=\"none\" stroke=\"currentColor\" stroke-linecap=\"round\" stroke-linejoin=\"round\" stroke-width=\"2\" class=\"feather feather-chevron-right\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\"><path d=\"m9 18 6-6-6-6\"\/><\/svg>\t\t\t<\/button>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"key-dates\"><strong>Key tax dates and deadlines<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The UK tax year runs from 6 April to 5 April the following year.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">For most people, the online Self Assessment deadlines are:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table\"><table class=\"has-fixed-layout\"><tbody><tr><td><strong>Task<\/strong><\/td><td><strong>Deadline<\/strong><\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Register for Self Assessment<\/td><td>5 October (after the end of the tax year you need to file for)<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>File your tax return online<\/td><td>31 January<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Pay any tax owed<\/td><td>31 January<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group has-azure-300-background-color has-background has-global-padding is-layout-constrained wp-container-core-group-is-layout-69910985 wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\" style=\"border-radius:10px;padding-top:var(--wp--preset--spacing--20);padding-right:var(--wp--preset--spacing--90);padding-bottom:var(--wp--preset--spacing--50);padding-left:var(--wp--preset--spacing--90)\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">From April 2026, <a data-type=\"knowledge\" data-id=\"38240\" href=\"https:\/\/www.simplybusiness.co.uk\/knowledge\/self-assessment\/making-tax-digital-for-income-tax\/\">Making Tax Digital (MTD)<\/a> will be phased in, meaning everyone will need to file their tax return online. This will also introduce quarterly updates, including an end-of-year declaration, instead of one annual Self Assessment. Find out more in our full guide.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-can-you-submit-your-tax-return-early\">\u200b<strong>Can you submit your tax return early?<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Yes \u2013 you can file your tax return as soon as the tax year ends on 5 April.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Filing early means you can:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li class=\"wp-block-list-item\">find out what you owe sooner<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"wp-block-list-item\">spread or plan your payments<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"wp-block-list-item\">avoid last-minute stress (and potential l<a href=\"https:\/\/www.simplybusiness.co.uk\/knowledge\/self-assessment\/hmrc-penalties-for-self-assessment\/\" data-type=\"knowledge\" data-id=\"1399\">ate-filing penalties<\/a>)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"wp-block-list-item\">receive a tax refund earlier if you\u2019ve overpaid<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Early submission doesn\u2019t mean you have to pay straight away \u2013 payment is still due by 31 January.<\/p>\n\n\n<link rel='stylesheet' id='formidable-css' href='https:\/\/www.simplybusiness.co.uk\/wp-admin\/admin-ajax.php?action=frmpro_css&#038;ver=3131128' media='all' \/>\n<div class=\"frm_forms  with_frm_style frm_style_simply-business\" id=\"frm_form_40_container\" data-token=\"3401c165f0515f323c395b8cb2b8e1eb\">\n<form enctype=\"multipart\/form-data\" method=\"post\" class=\"frm-show-form  frm_js_validate  frm_pro_form \" id=\"form_straw-poll5\" data-token=\"3401c165f0515f323c395b8cb2b8e1eb\">\n<div class=\"frm_form_fields \">\n<fieldset>\n<legend class=\"frm_screen_reader\">Self Assessment survey<\/legend>\r\n\r\n<div class=\"frm_fields_container\">\n<input type=\"hidden\" name=\"frm_action\" value=\"create\" \/>\n<input type=\"hidden\" name=\"form_id\" value=\"40\" \/>\n<input type=\"hidden\" name=\"frm_hide_fields_40\" id=\"frm_hide_fields_40\" value=\"\" \/>\n<input type=\"hidden\" name=\"form_key\" value=\"straw-poll5\" \/>\n<input type=\"hidden\" name=\"item_meta[0]\" value=\"\" \/>\n<input type=\"hidden\" id=\"frm_submit_entry_40\" name=\"frm_submit_entry_40\" value=\"e6c25e3ecc\" \/><input type=\"hidden\" name=\"_wp_http_referer\" value=\"\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/knowledge\/24133\" \/><div id=\"frm_field_392_container\" class=\"frm_form_field form-field  frm_required_field frm_top_container vertical_radio frm_display_format_buttons frm_text_align_left\">\r\n    <div  id=\"field_s8wc924_label\" class=\"frm_primary_label\">Is this the first year you&#8217;re submitting a self-employed tax return?\r\n        <span class=\"frm_required\">*<\/span>\r\n    <\/div>\r\n    <div class=\"frm_opt_container\" aria-labelledby=\"field_s8wc924_label\" role=\"radiogroup\" aria-required=\"true\">\t\t<div class=\"frm_radio\" id=\"frm_radio_392-0\">\t\t\t<label  for=\"field_s8wc924-0\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<input type=\"radio\" name=\"item_meta[392]\" id=\"field_s8wc924-0\" value=\"Yes\"\n\t\t data-reqmsg=\"Is this the first year you&#039;re submitting a self-employed tax return? cannot be blank.\" data-invmsg=\"Is this the first year you&#039;re submitting a self-employed tax return? is invalid\"   \/> <div class=\"frm_label_button_container\">Yes<\/div><\/label><\/div>\n\t\t<div class=\"frm_radio\" id=\"frm_radio_392-1\">\t\t\t<label  for=\"field_s8wc924-1\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<input type=\"radio\" name=\"item_meta[392]\" id=\"field_s8wc924-1\" value=\"No\"\n\t\t data-reqmsg=\"Is this the first year you&#039;re submitting a self-employed tax return? cannot be blank.\" data-invmsg=\"Is this the first year you&#039;re submitting a self-employed tax return? is invalid\"   \/> <div class=\"frm_label_button_container\">No<\/div><\/label><\/div>\n<\/div>\r\n    \r\n    \r\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"frm_field_393_container\" class=\"frm_form_field form-field  frm_required_field frm_top_container vertical_radio frm_display_format_buttons frm_text_align_left\">\r\n    <div  id=\"field_5qzxt5_label\" class=\"frm_primary_label\">How do you currently earn your primary income?\r\n        <span class=\"frm_required\" aria-hidden=\"true\">*<\/span>\r\n    <\/div>\r\n    <div class=\"frm_opt_container\" aria-labelledby=\"field_5qzxt5_label\" role=\"radiogroup\" aria-required=\"true\">\t\t<div class=\"frm_radio\" id=\"frm_radio_393-0\">\t\t\t<label  for=\"field_5qzxt5-0\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<input type=\"radio\" name=\"item_meta[393]\" id=\"field_5qzxt5-0\" value=\"Traditional 9-to-5: I work one steady job for an employer\"\n\t\t data-reqmsg=\"How do you currently earn your primary income? cannot be blank.\" data-invmsg=\"How do you currently earn your primary income? is invalid\"   \/> <div class=\"frm_label_button_container\">Traditional 9-to-5: I work one steady job for an employer<\/div><\/label><\/div>\n\t\t<div class=\"frm_radio\" id=\"frm_radio_393-1\">\t\t\t<label  for=\"field_5qzxt5-1\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<input type=\"radio\" name=\"item_meta[393]\" id=\"field_5qzxt5-1\" value=\"The &quot;side hustler&quot;: I have a main job but also run a business\/freelance on the side\"\n\t\t data-reqmsg=\"How do you currently earn your primary income? cannot be blank.\" data-invmsg=\"How do you currently earn your primary income? is invalid\"   \/> <div class=\"frm_label_button_container\">The &#8220;side hustler&#8221;: I have a main job but also run a business\/freelance on the side<\/div><\/label><\/div>\n\t\t<div class=\"frm_radio\" id=\"frm_radio_393-2\">\t\t\t<label  for=\"field_5qzxt5-2\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<input type=\"radio\" name=\"item_meta[393]\" id=\"field_5qzxt5-2\" value=\"Full-time founder\/freelancer: I\u2019m 100% self-employed\"\n\t\t data-reqmsg=\"How do you currently earn your primary income? cannot be blank.\" data-invmsg=\"How do you currently earn your primary income? is invalid\"   \/> <div class=\"frm_label_button_container\">Full-time founder\/freelancer: I\u2019m 100% self-employed<\/div><\/label><\/div>\n\t\t<div class=\"frm_radio\" id=\"frm_radio_393-3\">\t\t\t<label  for=\"field_5qzxt5-3\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<input type=\"radio\" name=\"item_meta[393]\" id=\"field_5qzxt5-3\" value=\"Currently searching: I am in between roles or starting something new.\"\n\t\t data-reqmsg=\"How do you currently earn your primary income? cannot be blank.\" data-invmsg=\"How do you currently earn your primary income? is invalid\"   \/> <div class=\"frm_label_button_container\">Currently searching: I am in between roles or starting something new.<\/div><\/label><\/div>\n<\/div>\r\n    \r\n    \r\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"frm_field_396_container\" class=\"frm_form_field  frm12 frm_first frm_html_container form-field\">\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"wp-image-37264 alignright\" src=\"https:\/\/new-staging.simplybusiness.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2025\/06\/Asset-1.png?w=800\" alt=\"\" width=\"164\" height=\"18\" \/><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"frm_field_395_container\" class=\"frm_form_field form-field  frm12 frm_first\">\r\n\t<div class=\"frm_submit\">\r\n\r\n<button class=\"frm_button_submit frm_final_submit\" type=\"submit\" >Submit<\/button>\r\n\r\n<\/div>\r\n<\/div>\n\t<input type=\"hidden\" name=\"item_key\" value=\"\" \/>\n\t\t\t<div id=\"frm_field_423_container\">\n\t\t\t<label for=\"field_n56pr\" >\n\t\t\t\tIf you are human, leave this field blank.\t\t\t<\/label>\n\t\t\t<input  id=\"field_n56pr\" type=\"text\" class=\"frm_form_field form-field frm_verify\" name=\"item_meta[423]\" value=\"\"  \/>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<input name=\"frm_state\" type=\"hidden\" value=\"kAOSLYD2ckLE\/1ffX+Sl3RNCebGSLqPExlRJVabQwqbqq5udv6r2bTusMx8ktMLE\" \/><\/div>\n<\/fieldset>\n<\/div>\n\n<p style=\"display: none !important;\" class=\"akismet-fields-container\" data-prefix=\"ak_\"><label>&#916;<textarea name=\"ak_hp_textarea\" cols=\"45\" rows=\"8\" maxlength=\"100\"><\/textarea><\/label><input type=\"hidden\" id=\"ak_js_1\" name=\"ak_js\" value=\"116\"\/><script>document.getElementById( \"ak_js_1\" ).setAttribute( \"value\", ( new Date() ).getTime() );<\/script><\/p><\/form>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-getting-ready-to-file-your-self-assessment-tax-return\">Getting ready to file your Self Assessment tax return<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group has-azure-200-background-color has-background has-global-padding is-layout-constrained wp-container-core-group-is-layout-30c80bf8 wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\" style=\"border-radius:10px;margin-top:var(--wp--preset--spacing--90);margin-bottom:var(--wp--preset--spacing--90);padding-top:var(--wp--preset--spacing--90);padding-right:var(--wp--preset--spacing--90);padding-bottom:var(--wp--preset--spacing--90);padding-left:var(--wp--preset--spacing--90)\">\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"before\"><strong>Before you start: what you\u2019ll need<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Having everything ready before you begin makes the process smoother. You\u2019ll need:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li class=\"wp-block-list-item\">your <strong>unique taxpayer reference (UTR)<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"wp-block-list-item\">your <strong>Government Gateway ID<\/strong> and password<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"wp-block-list-item\">records of income and expenses<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"wp-block-list-item\">any P60s, P45s, or pension statements<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"wp-block-list-item\">bank interest statements and dividend details<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>What is a UTR number?<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Your <strong>unique taxpayer reference (UTR)<\/strong> is a 10-digit number HMRC uses to identify you.<br>You\u2019ll need it to file your return, register for Self Assessment, or contact HMRC about your tax.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">You can find it on:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li class=\"wp-block-list-item\">previous tax returns or HMRC letters<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"wp-block-list-item\">your online HMRC account<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"wp-block-list-item\">the HMRC app (more on this below)<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If you\u2019ve never filed a return before, you\u2019ll get your UTR after registering for Self Assessment \u2013 allow up to 10 days to receive it by post.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"example\"><strong>Example: when to file my online Self Assessment<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If you\u2019re self-employed and earned a gross income of \u00a3100,000 in 2024-25, for example, you\u2019d need to complete your tax return for that year&#8217;s earnings by January 31 2026.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Based on the \u00a3100,000 income, and claimed back \u00a38,000 in business expenses, your tax liability for the 2024-25 tax year would look something like this:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li class=\"wp-block-list-item\"><strong>income tax:<\/strong> \u00a324,232<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"wp-block-list-item\"><strong>class 4 National Insurance:<\/strong> \u00a33,097<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"wp-block-list-item\"><strong>total tax owed: <\/strong>\u00a335,329<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"What-if-I-don\u2019t-file-a-Self-Assessment\"><strong>What if I don\u2019t file a Self Assessment?<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If you don\u2019t file your Self Assessment (and you earned over \u00a31,000 in gross income), you could face a variety of penalties:&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li class=\"wp-block-list-item\"><strong>late filing penalty<\/strong> \u2013 if you miss the deadline, you\u2019ll receive an automatic \u00a3100 penalty<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"wp-block-list-item\"><strong>daily penalties<\/strong> \u2013 if your return is still not filed three months after the deadline, you&#8217;ll be charged \u00a310 per day, up to a maximum of \u00a3900<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"wp-block-list-item\"><strong>fixed penalties \u2013<\/strong> after six months, you&#8217;ll receive a fixed penalty of \u00a3300 or five per cent of the tax due, whichever is bigger. This penalty is also applied after 12 months<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"wp-block-list-item\"><strong>late payment penalties<\/strong> \u2013 there are also penalties if you don\u2019t pay your tax bill on time<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If the debt isn\u2019t paid after this, HMRC could escalate to debt collection, court action, and even business closure.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div id=\"nba-body-001\">\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"how-to-do\"><strong><strong>How to do a Self Assessment tax return (step by step)<\/strong><\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Follow these simple steps to complete your Self Assessment online.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-step-1-register-with-hmrc\">Step 1: Register <strong>with HMRC<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If this is your first time, you need to <a href=\"https:\/\/www.simplybusiness.co.uk\/knowledge\/business-structure\/register-as-self-employed\/\" data-type=\"knowledge\" data-id=\"1501\">register for Self Assessment<\/a> and Class 2 National Insurance. You can do this through your <a href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/log-in-register-hmrc-online-services\/register\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\">HMRC online account<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Make sure to register by 5 October in your business\u2019s second tax year. Once registered, HMRC will post your UTR to you.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-step-2-gather-your-records\">Step 2: Gather your records<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Collect all your business and personal income details, along with allowable expenses.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">For self-employed Self Assessment, the key information is likely to be your income and expenditure details, so you should have all your invoices and receipts to hand.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Remember that there are <a href=\"https:\/\/www.simplybusiness.co.uk\/knowledge\/self-assessment\/self-employed-expenses\/\" data-type=\"knowledge\" data-id=\"1511\">allowable expenses<\/a> you can subtract from your turnover when submitting your tax return.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" height=\"451\" width=\"1024\" src=\"https:\/\/www.simplybusiness.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2024\/05\/self-employed-expenses-graphic.png?w=1024\" alt=\"Simply Business graphic showing types of self-employed expenses\" class=\"wp-image-3513\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.simplybusiness.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2024\/05\/self-employed-expenses-graphic.png 8000w, https:\/\/www.simplybusiness.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2024\/05\/self-employed-expenses-graphic.png?resize=800,352 800w, https:\/\/www.simplybusiness.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2024\/05\/self-employed-expenses-graphic.png?resize=768,338 768w, https:\/\/www.simplybusiness.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2024\/05\/self-employed-expenses-graphic.png?resize=1024,451 1024w, https:\/\/www.simplybusiness.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2024\/05\/self-employed-expenses-graphic.png?resize=1536,677 1536w, https:\/\/www.simplybusiness.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2024\/05\/self-employed-expenses-graphic.png?resize=2048,902 2048w, https:\/\/www.simplybusiness.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2024\/05\/self-employed-expenses-graphic.png?resize=150,66 150w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">It\u2019s important to keep good records throughout the year. Not only does this make filling in your return easier, HMRC may check your return after you\u2019ve filed and ask to see your records. You\u2019re required to keep your records for five years after the 31 January deadline.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">After MTD becomes mandatory from April 2026, you\u2019ll be <strong>required to keep digital records<\/strong> of what goes into your tax return.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-step-3-log-in-and-start-your-return\">Step 3: <strong>Log in and start your return<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">You can file through the HMRC website. Here are some things to keep in mind:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li class=\"wp-block-list-item\"><strong>check your personal details \u2013<\/strong> HMRC should be kept up to date with changes to your address or name, so make sure you use this time to check they\u2019re correct<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"wp-block-list-item\"><strong>the system reacts to your details as you enter them \u2013 <\/strong>so as you fill in the Self Assessment form, it may remove sections that aren\u2019t relevant to you<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" height=\"871\" width=\"1024\" src=\"https:\/\/www.simplybusiness.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2024\/08\/how-to-fill-in-your-self-employed-tax-return.png?w=1024\" alt=\"Graphic showing how to fill in a self-employed tax return in 5 steps\" class=\"wp-image-24757\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.simplybusiness.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2024\/08\/how-to-fill-in-your-self-employed-tax-return.png 2646w, https:\/\/www.simplybusiness.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2024\/08\/how-to-fill-in-your-self-employed-tax-return.png?resize=800,680 800w, https:\/\/www.simplybusiness.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2024\/08\/how-to-fill-in-your-self-employed-tax-return.png?resize=768,653 768w, https:\/\/www.simplybusiness.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2024\/08\/how-to-fill-in-your-self-employed-tax-return.png?resize=1024,871 1024w, https:\/\/www.simplybusiness.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2024\/08\/how-to-fill-in-your-self-employed-tax-return.png?resize=1536,1306 1536w, https:\/\/www.simplybusiness.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2024\/08\/how-to-fill-in-your-self-employed-tax-return.png?resize=2048,1741 2048w, https:\/\/www.simplybusiness.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2024\/08\/how-to-fill-in-your-self-employed-tax-return.png?resize=150,128 150w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Step 4: Fill in your income and expenses<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Enter details of your self-employed income, business costs, and any other income (like rental or investment income).<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">HMRC will automatically calculate your tax and National Insurance contributions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Remember: a<\/strong><strong>dd your tax-deductible expenses<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Use your expense receipts when filling in this section. Our guide to what you can claim as <a href=\"https:\/\/www.simplybusiness.co.uk\/knowledge\/self-assessment\/self-employed-expenses\/\" data-type=\"knowledge\" data-id=\"1511\">self-employed tax deductible expenses<\/a> has more details.You can also use <a href=\"https:\/\/www.simplybusiness.co.uk\/knowledge\/business-tax\/simplified-expenses-working-from-home\/\" data-type=\"knowledge\" data-id=\"1521\">simplified expenses<\/a> (based on a flat rate) if you have relatively few business expenses.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio\"><div class=\"wp-block-embed__wrapper\">\n<iframe loading=\"lazy\" title=\"What are self-employed tax deductible expenses?\" width=\"500\" height=\"281\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/CDaEqRCC5TQ?feature=oembed\" frameborder=\"0\" allow=\"accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share\" referrerpolicy=\"strict-origin-when-cross-origin\" allowfullscreen><\/iframe>\n<\/div><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Step 5: Review and submit<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Double-check all figures before hitting submit. Once filed, HMRC will confirm receipt and show how much you owe (or are owed).<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">You can still make an amendment even if you notice a mistake after you\u2019ve submitted your Self Assessment. Read up on <a href=\"https:\/\/www.simplybusiness.co.uk\/knowledge\/business-tax\/hmrc-errors-and-mistakes-guidance\/\" data-type=\"knowledge\" data-id=\"1398\">how to amend errors and mistakes with HMRC<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Step 6: Pay your tax bill<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Payment is due by <strong>31 January<\/strong>. You can pay via:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li class=\"wp-block-list-item\">bank transfer or debit card<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"wp-block-list-item\">Direct Debit<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"wp-block-list-item\">the <strong>HMRC app<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">When you submit your tax return, you should get a confirmation message and a reference number. HMRC will calculate the tax you owe, as well as the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.simplybusiness.co.uk\/knowledge\/self-assessment\/how-to-pay-national-insurance-when-self-employed\/\" data-type=\"knowledge\" data-id=\"1440\">National Insurance contributions<\/a> you need to pay.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio\"><div class=\"wp-block-embed__wrapper\">\n<iframe loading=\"lazy\" title=\"How to fill in a Self Assessment tax return UK\" width=\"500\" height=\"281\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/53kodFNm-Mc?feature=oembed\" frameborder=\"0\" allow=\"accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share\" referrerpolicy=\"strict-origin-when-cross-origin\" allowfullscreen><\/iframe>\n<\/div><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"app\"><strong>How to use the HMRC app for your Self Assessment<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The HMRC app can help you:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li class=\"wp-block-list-item\">check your UTR number and tax code<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"wp-block-list-item\">see what you owe<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"wp-block-list-item\">make payments quickly and securely<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"wp-block-list-item\">access messages and updates from HMRC<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">It\u2019s especially useful for keeping track of deadlines and viewing your tax history in one place.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">To download:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li class=\"wp-block-list-item\">visit the App Store or Google Play<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"wp-block-list-item\">search \u201cHMRC\u201d<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"wp-block-list-item\">log in using your Government Gateway details<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio\"><div class=\"wp-block-embed__wrapper\">\n<iframe loading=\"lazy\" title=\"How do I use the HMRC app to make a Self Assessment payment?\" width=\"500\" height=\"281\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/FizsvQbH-xM?feature=oembed\" frameborder=\"0\" allow=\"accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share\" referrerpolicy=\"strict-origin-when-cross-origin\" allowfullscreen><\/iframe>\n<\/div><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Contact HMRC if you need any help<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If you need some assistance with your online tax return, you can get in touch with HMRC in a few different ways depending on what you need:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li class=\"wp-block-list-item\"><strong>income tax helpline \u2013 <\/strong>0300 200 3300<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"wp-block-list-item\"><strong>Self Assessment helpline \u2013 <\/strong>0300 200 3310<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"wp-block-list-item\"><strong>National Insurance helpline \u2013<\/strong> 0300 200 3500<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"wp-block-list-item\"><strong>HMRC digital assistant \u2013<\/strong> talk to <a href=\"https:\/\/www.tax.service.gov.uk\/ask-hmrc\/chat\/national-insurance\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\">HMRC\u2019s chatbot<\/a> online<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"wp-block-list-item\"><strong>webchat \u2013 <\/strong>HMRC offers webchat support for some issues<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group has-azure-300-background-color has-background has-global-padding is-layout-constrained wp-container-core-group-is-layout-69910985 wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\" style=\"border-radius:10px;padding-top:var(--wp--preset--spacing--20);padding-right:var(--wp--preset--spacing--90);padding-bottom:var(--wp--preset--spacing--50);padding-left:var(--wp--preset--spacing--90)\">\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"mistakes\"><strong>Common mistakes to avoid<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Avoid these frequent errors to keep things simple and penalty-free:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li class=\"wp-block-list-item\"><strong>missing the filing deadline<\/strong> \u2013 fines start from \u00a3100 even if you don\u2019t owe tax<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"wp-block-list-item\"><strong>forgetting to report all income sources<\/strong> (e.g. side jobs or property)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"wp-block-list-item\"><strong>not claiming allowable expenses<\/strong> \u2013 you could be paying more tax than necessary<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"wp-block-list-item\"><strong>using the wrong figures<\/strong> \u2013 double-check totals from invoices and bank statements<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"wp-block-list-item\"><strong>not keeping digital records<\/strong> \u2013 HMRC is moving towards Making Tax Digital<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-what-if-i-miss-the-deadline-for-submitting-my-self-assessment\">What if I miss the deadline for submitting my Self Assessment?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The deadline for paying your tax return is the same day as the deadline for filing \u2013 31 January.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If you file your tax return late, you\u2019ll get a \u00a3100 penalty (if it\u2019s up to three months late \u2013 the fine is more if it\u2019s later). After that, HMRC uses a points-based system to apply penalties.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Read more about <a href=\"https:\/\/www.simplybusiness.co.uk\/knowledge\/self-assessment\/hmrc-penalties-for-self-assessment\/\" data-type=\"knowledge\" data-id=\"1399\">penalties for missing the tax deadline<\/a> as well as <a href=\"https:\/\/www.simplybusiness.co.uk\/knowledge\/self-assessment\/hmrc-penalties-for-self-assessment\/\" data-type=\"knowledge\" data-id=\"970\">proposed changes to the penalty points system<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"what-is-a-tax-return\">What is a tax return?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Self Assessment is the overall system HMRC uses to collect income tax, while a tax return (also known as form SA100) is the specific form you fill out and submit as part of your Self Assessment.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Your tax return tells HMRC how much income you\u2019ve received during the tax year. This is then used to work out how much tax you need to pay.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"guidance\">HMRC tax return guidance<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">There\u2019s lots of <a href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/self-assessment-tax-returns\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\">Self Assessment guidance<\/a> on the government website and you can also call the Self Assessment helpline on 0300 200 3310.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">But in previous years HMRC\u2019s phone lines have crashed, so make sure you leave enough time to get in touch with them if you need to.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">HMRC also warns the self-employed to watch out for tax scams during Self Assessment.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Using an accountant to help with tax returns online<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Using an accountant can make filing your Self Assessment simpler. While it\u2019s still your responsibility to gather the correct information, an accountant can help you:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li class=\"wp-block-list-item\">understand what information you need for your tax return<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"wp-block-list-item\">analyse what tax allowances you\u2019re entitled to&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"wp-block-list-item\">follow the latest tax regulations&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"wp-block-list-item\">communicate your issues with HMRC<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"wp-block-list-item\">organise your finances for future tax returns and make sure you\u2019re working tax efficiently<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"help\">Help if you\u2019re struggling to pay Self Assessment tax<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">HMRC\u2019s <a href=\"https:\/\/www.simplybusiness.co.uk\/knowledge\/self-assessment\/hmrc-time-to-pay\/\" data-type=\"knowledge\" data-id=\"1403\">Time to Pay<\/a> service is available if you can\u2019t pay your tax bill by the 31 January deadline.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This is for those struggling financially \u2013 so if you can pay your tax bill, you should, not least because through Time to Pay you\u2019ll pay interest on what you owe. This makes your bill more expensive.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">You\u2019ll need to complete your tax return first, so don\u2019t leave it until the last minute. If you miss the deadline for either filing your return or paying your bill, HMRC may give you a fine.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">You can call the HMRC Self Assessment payment helpline on 0300 200 3820 to discuss a Time to Pay plan.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group has-azure-300-background-color has-background has-global-padding is-layout-constrained wp-container-core-group-is-layout-69910985 wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\" style=\"border-radius:10px;padding-top:var(--wp--preset--spacing--20);padding-right:var(--wp--preset--spacing--90);padding-bottom:var(--wp--preset--spacing--50);padding-left:var(--wp--preset--spacing--90)\">\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"checklist\">Self Assessment \u2013 final checklist<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Before you submit your Self Assessment, make sure you\u2019ve:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li class=\"wp-block-list-item\">registered for Self Assessment (if new)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"wp-block-list-item\">found your UTR and login details<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"wp-block-list-item\">gathered your income and expense records<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"wp-block-list-item\">checked deadlines and amounts owed<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"wp-block-list-item\">submitted and paid before 31 January<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"faqs\"><strong>FAQ: common questions on tax return<\/strong>s<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">When can I submit my Self Assessment tax return?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">You can file the day after the tax year ends (6 April) and anytime up to 31 January.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">What happens if I miss the deadline?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">HMRC will issue an automatic \u00a3100 fine for late filing, plus additional daily penalties after three months.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-can-i-get-a-refund-if-i-overpay-my-tax\"><strong>Can I get a refund if I overpay my tax? <\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Yes, you can get a refund if you overpay your tax. HMRC will calculate your tax liability and send you a refund if you\u2019ve overpaid.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-what-happens-if-i-stop-being-self-employed\"><strong>What happens if I stop being self-employed?<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">It\u2019s crucial that you tell HMRC if you stop being self-employed, don\u2019t assume they\u2019ll know just because you\u2019ve stopped trading. And you\u2019ll need to complete a final tax return for the year that you stopped being self-employed.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-can-i-file-a-tax-return-for-previous-years-if-i-have-forgotten\"><strong>Can I file a tax return for previous years if I have forgotten?<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">You can file a tax return for previous years but you might be fined by HMRC for late filing. And if you\u2019re filing over four years late, you\u2019ll lose your chance to get a refund if you overpay tax.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-can-i-claim-tax-relief-on-working-from-home\"><strong>Can I claim tax relief on working from home?<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If you run your business from home, you can claim back some of your home expenses as business expenses. You&#8217;ll just need to determine the proportion of your home that\u2019s used for business purposes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This can be based on the number of rooms used exclusively for work or the percentage of your home&#8217;s square footage dedicated to your workspace.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-how-can-i-get-my-tax-refund-online\"><strong>How can I get my tax refund online?<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">You can claim a tax refund online through the government gateway or on the HMRC app. It usually takes a couple of weeks for them to process your tax return and see if you\u2019ve overpaid.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Is there a deadline for tax returns in the UK?<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Yes, there\u2019s a deadline for tax returns in the UK. If you submit a paper Self Assessment, the deadline is 31 October, and 31 January for online submissions.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Can I do my own tax return without an accountant?<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Yes, you can do your Self Assessment without an accountant. There\u2019s no legal requirement to use an accountant, they can just make the process simpler if you\u2019re unfamiliar with the Self Assessment process.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-how-do-i-download-my-hmrc-tax-return\"><strong>How do I download my HMRC tax return?<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">You can download your tax return through your personal tax account on the government website. Just click on the Self Assessment section, select the tax return you want, and download a PDF from there.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-how-much-is-self-assessment\">How much is Self Assessment?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The amount of tax you owe each year depends on how much you earn. Read our guide to <a href=\"https:\/\/www.simplybusiness.co.uk\/knowledge\/business-tax\/income-tax-rates\/\" data-type=\"knowledge\" data-id=\"1464\">self-employed tax rates<\/a> and bands to see how much you might need to pay.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">You can also use the government\u2019s <a href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/self-employed-tax-calculator\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\">Self Assessment tax calculator<\/a> to get an estimate of how much you\u2019ll need to pay HMRC.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div id=\"nba-upsell-001\" class=\"wp-block-group has-azure-200-background-color has-background has-global-padding is-layout-constrained wp-container-core-group-is-layout-94e519ba wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\" style=\"padding-top:var(--wp--preset--spacing--80);padding-right:var(--wp--preset--spacing--40);padding-bottom:var(--wp--preset--spacing--80);padding-left:var(--wp--preset--spacing--40)\">\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading has-text-align-center\">Ready to set up your cover?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center wp-block-paragraph\">As one of the UK&#8217;s biggest <a href=\"\/business-insurance\/\" data-type=\"page\" data-id=\"5152\">business insurance<\/a> providers, we specialise in <a href=\"\/business-insurance\/public-liability-insurance\/\" data-type=\"page\" data-id=\"734\" >public liability insurance<\/a> and protect more trades than anybody else. Why not take a look now and build a quick, tailored quote?<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-buttons is-content-justification-center is-layout-flex wp-container-core-buttons-is-layout-a89b3969 wp-block-buttons-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-button\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link wp-element-button\" href=\"https:\/\/quote.simplybusiness.co.uk\/business\">Start your quote<\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div id=\"nba-body-end\">\n<\/div>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Everything you need to know about Self Assessments and tax returns.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":44,"featured_media":50094,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","template":"","meta":{"sb_hreflang":"","sb_hreflang_url":"","disable_breadcrumbs":false,"sb_breadcrumbs":[],"sb_reviewed_by":"","sb_review_date":"","sb_enable_content_gating":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[344,348],"hidden-category":[],"coauthors":[24],"class_list":["post-24133","knowledge","type-knowledge","status-publish","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-business-tax","category-self-assessment"],"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO Premium plugin v27.2 (Yoast SEO v27.2) - https:\/\/yoast.com\/product\/yoast-seo-premium-wordpress\/ -->\n<title>How to do a Self Assessment tax return | Step-by-step guide<\/title>\n<meta name=\"description\" content=\"Filing your Self Assessment tax return? Our step-by-step guide explains what you need, key deadlines, and how to file online or with the HMRC app.\" \/>\n<meta name=\"robots\" content=\"index, follow, max-snippet:-1, max-image-preview:large, max-video-preview:-1\" \/>\n<link rel=\"canonical\" href=\"https:\/\/www.simplybusiness.co.uk\/knowledge\/self-assessment\/how-to-do-a-self-assessment-tax-return\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:locale\" content=\"en_GB\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:type\" content=\"article\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:title\" content=\"A guide to completing your Self Assessment\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:description\" content=\"Everything you need to know about Self Assessments and tax returns.\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:url\" content=\"https:\/\/www.simplybusiness.co.uk\/knowledge\/self-assessment\/how-to-do-a-self-assessment-tax-return\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:site_name\" content=\"Simply Business UK\" \/>\n<meta property=\"article:publisher\" content=\"https:\/\/www.facebook.com\/simplybusiness\" \/>\n<meta property=\"article:modified_time\" content=\"2026-04-20T11:38:25+00:00\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:image\" content=\"https:\/\/www.simplybusiness.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2025\/11\/SelfAssessment-scaled.png\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:width\" content=\"1500\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:height\" content=\"837\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:type\" content=\"image\/png\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:card\" content=\"summary_large_image\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:title\" content=\"How to do a Self Assessment tax return online (step-by-step guide for the self-employed)\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:site\" content=\"@simplybusiness\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:label1\" content=\"Est. reading time\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"twitter:data1\" content=\"13 minutes\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"twitter:label2\" content=\"Written by\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"twitter:data2\" content=\"Rosanna Parrish\" \/>\n<script type=\"application\/ld+json\" class=\"yoast-schema-graph\">{\"@context\":\"https:\/\/schema.org\",\"@graph\":[{\"@type\":\"Article\",\"@id\":\"https:\/\/www.simplybusiness.co.uk\/knowledge\/self-assessment\/how-to-do-a-self-assessment-tax-return\/#article\",\"isPartOf\":{\"@id\":\"https:\/\/www.simplybusiness.co.uk\/knowledge\/self-assessment\/how-to-do-a-self-assessment-tax-return\/\"},\"author\":{\"@type\":\"Person\",\"name\":\"Rosanna Parrish\",\"description\":\"Rosanna Parrish is a Copywriter at Simply Business specialising in side hustles \u2013 as well as all things freelance, social media, and ecommerce. 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