Self-Assessment Tax Return Deadlines in the UK: What You Need to Know
In the UK, self-assessment tax returns have become an annual duty that comes in silently, then suddenly screams for urgent attention. Miss a deadline, and HMRC reacts remarkably quickly, automatically applying escalating penalties for the failure to act accordingly. Knowing what the key dates are, what they mean, and how to stay ahead of them can save you stress, money, and unnecessary correspondence with HMRC. Who Is Required to File a Self-Assessment Return ? You don't have to be a business owner to be obligated to file a self-assessment. You may need to file if you are: Sole trader or self-employed A company director A landlord deriving rental income. A higher-rate taxpayer with untaxed income Somebody receiving income from abroad, investments, or freelancing. If a notice to file has been issued by HMRC, the obligation exists even if you believe no tax is due. The Key UK Self-Assessment Deadlines The UK tax year runs from 6 April to 5 April. At the end of the tax year, the clock...