Do I Need to File a Self-Assessment Tax Return in the UK?

Many people in the UK are unsure whether they need to file a Self-Assessment tax return. If you've received a letter from HMRC or earned income outside of regular employment, this question is especially important.

Here's a simple guide to help you understand when a Self-Assessment tax return is required.

Who must file a Self-Assessment tax return?

You usually need to file a Self-Assessment tax return if you:

• Are self-employed or a sole trader

• Earn income from freelance or side work

• Are a company director

• Earned more than £1,000 from self-employment

• Received untaxed income from property or rent

• Claim tax refunds or expenses

• Received a letter from HMRC asking you to file

  
  

If any of these apply to you, HMRC may expect a tax return.

Do I need to file if I'm employed?

Even if you are employed and pay tax through PAYE, you may still need to file if you:

• Have a second income

• Earn money from Uber, Deliveroo, Amazon, Etsy, or online platforms

• Have multiple jobs

• Paid too much tax and want to claim a tax refund

Many people overpay tax without realising it.

What happens If I don't file?

If you are required to file and don't:

• HMRC cane issue late filing penalties

• Interest may be charged

• HMRC may estimate your tax bill

• You could receive further compliance letters

Filling on time avoids unnecessary stress and penalties.

When is the Self-Assessment deadline?

• 31 October- paper returns

• 31 January- online tax returns and payment deadline

Missing the January deadline usually results in an automatic penalty.

Can I get a tax refund?

Yes. Many people filing a Self-Assessment are owed money.

Common reasons for refunds include:

• Overpaid PAYE tax

• Incorrect tax codes

• Claiming allowable expenses

• CIS deductions

• Part-year employment

A tax return is often the only way to claim this back.

Need help with your tax return?

If you're unsure whether you need to file, or you want help submitting your tax return correctly, professional support can save time, reduce stress, and prevent costly mistakes.

We assist individuals, self-employed workers, and small businesses across the UK with:

• Self-Assessment tax returns

• Tax refunds

• Corporation tax returns

• VAT registrations

• Company formation

• HMRC letters and queries

Book a free initial call and we'll guide you through the next steps.

This article was written by Lukvitax , an HMRC Authorised Tax Agent, supervised for Anti- Money Laundering purposes by HMRC.

This article provides general information and does not constitute personalised professional advise. Advice is provided following a formal engagement.