Tax self-assessment

The self-assessment tax return is an unavoidable burden if you are liable for self-employed tax or have complicated income tax affairs. Both self-employed business owners and company directors must complete self-assessment tax returns.

But while nobody particularly likes paying income tax, the right approach to your self-assessment tax return will minimise the aggravation and can reduce the income tax you end up paying.

Our guides can help you understand the key issues you need to deal with. For help with the specifics, talk to an accountant; their expertise should save you time and money.

Income tax records

If you’re self-employed, keeping accurate, current tax records is essential — both to satisfy your legal obligations and for your own use. You need to keep track of both income and business expenses. You should also keep records of assets (such as equipment) you purchase or sell, in case you need to declare any capital gains on your self-assessment tax return.

Company directors also need to keep income tax records, detailing personal income and any business expenses they pay. Both company directors’ records and self-employed tax records must include any non-business but potentially taxable income, for example, from savings or renting out a property.

Well-organised records make it easier to get started on your self-assessment tax return. An organised approach also helps ensure you have full information on your costs and can make the most of income tax allowances and reliefs.

Self-assessment tax returns and payments

You need to complete a self-assessment tax return each year. The tax return covers a tax year running to 5 April and is due by the following 31 October (or 31 January if you file online).

You can complete your self-assessment tax return or an accountant can do it for you. Self-employed taxpayers and company directors may find the tax they save by using an accountant more than justifies the fees — not to mention the reduced hassle and reassurance of knowing that your self-assessment tax return has been completed properly.

If you are self-employed, tax payments are due in two stages — by 31 January and 31 July. National Insurance payments based on your profits are also collected in this way. If you are paid as an employee, you may be able to pay any outstanding income tax through adjustments to your PAYE tax code.

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