Self assessment tax returns
Guidance on the different sources of income to be included in a tax return and some of the reliefs available.
Who needs to do a tax return?
Many individuals in the UK need to register for self assessment and complete an annual tax return due to receiving income from different sources. You may need to register if any of the following apply:
You receive self-employment income as a sole trader of more than £1,000 (excluding VAT and before deducting expenses)
You are a partner in a partnership business
Your employment income is over £150,000
You have to pay the High Income Child Benefit Charge
You receive rental income of more than £1,000
You receive other untaxed income of more than £1,000, such as from tips, commission or casual work
Your receive dividends of more than the £500 dividend allowance
You receive savings income of more than the personal savings allowance, which ranges from £0-£5,000 depending on the level of your other income
You sold or disposed of an asset (eg shares or property) and made a profit above the £3,000 Capital Gains Tax allowance. Please be aware that if you dispose of a residential property that is not your main home, there are additional requirements including having to submit a capital gains tax return within 60 days of sale.
You receive foreign income
You receive income from a trust or estate
Claiming reliefs?
You may choose to complete a tax return if you wish to claim some tax reliefs, as proof of self-employment in order to claim tax-free childcare or maternity allowance, or if you wish to pay voluntary national insurance contributions.
What do I need to do?
Before you can submit your first tax return you will need to register for self-assessment with HMRC. You need to state why you need to complete a tax return, to ensure you are set up correctly for national insurance. You can register online.
Once you are registered for self-assessment, you will need to file tax returns each year.
If you need help registering for self-assessment or completing your tax return, we are here to help.
Deadlines
You need to register for self assessment by 5 October following the end of tax year (5 April) for which you are required to file a tax return.
Tax returns are due to be submitted to HMRC by 31 January following the end of the tax year (5 April).
Need more information?
If you have any questions about whether you need to register or what records to provide, or anything else about self assessment, contact us.