Self-Assessment Guide
Find out if you need to file a self-assessment tax return and learn about key deadlines.
Do I Need to File a Self-Assessment?
Answer the questions below to find out. You answered 0 of 10 questions.
1.Are you self-employed (sole trader or in a partnership)?
This includes freelancing, contracting, or running a business as a sole trader.
2.Was your total income over £150,000 in the tax year?
This includes all sources: employment, self-employment, pensions, investments, rental, etc.
3.Did you receive rental income of more than £2,500 (before expenses)?
Income from letting property in the UK or abroad.
4.Did you receive more than £2,500 in untaxed income?
For example: tips, commission not taxed through PAYE, or income from abroad.
5.Did you receive savings or investment income over £10,000?
Interest from savings accounts, bonds, or other investments before tax.
6.Did you make capital gains above the annual exempt amount?
Profit from selling assets like shares, property (not your main home), or other valuable items.
7.Did you receive income from abroad that you need to pay UK tax on?
Overseas employment income, foreign pensions, rental income from overseas property.
8.Do you or your partner receive Child Benefit and either of you earned over £50,000?
The High Income Child Benefit Charge applies if the higher earner has income over £50,000.
9.Are you a company director?
Directors of limited companies (excluding non-profit organisations) may need to file.
10.Did you receive dividend income above the dividend allowance?
The dividend allowance is £1,000 for 2023-24 and £500 for 2024-25.
Key Deadlines
Important dates for the self-assessment tax year (e.g., for 2024-25 tax year, ending 5 April 2025)
Register for self-assessment if filing for the first time
Deadline for paper tax returns
Deadline for online tax returns and paying tax owed
Second payment on account due (if applicable)
Late filing penalty: £100 if your return is up to 3 months late. Additional penalties apply for longer delays: £10/day for up to 90 days, then 5% of tax due or £300 (whichever is greater) at 6 and 12 months.
Useful HMRC Links
Official guidance and resources from HMRC
- Self Assessment tax returns - GOV.UK
Overview of how to file your tax return online or by post.
- Check if you need to send a tax return - GOV.UK
HMRC's official tool to check if you need to file.
- Register for Self Assessment - GOV.UK
How to register if you need to file for the first time.
- Self Assessment forms and helpsheets - GOV.UK
Download supplementary pages and helpsheets for your return.
- Pay your Self Assessment tax bill - GOV.UK
Payment options including direct debit, online banking, and payment plans.