Understanding Self Assessment and your tax return
Introduction
Guide
Self Assessment is a system HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC) uses to collect Income Tax. Income Tax is usually deducted automatically from wages, pensions, and savings. However, people and businesses with other income must report it in a Self Assessment tax return.
Do I need to file a Self Assessment tax return?
You can find out who must send a tax return and check if you need to fill in a Self Assessment return.
Self Assessment deadlines
The deadlines to submit your Self Assessment tax return for the 2024 to 2025 tax year are:
- Paper return - 11:59pm on Friday 31 October 2025
- Online return - 11:59pm on Saturday 31 January 2026
You must also pay the tax you owe by 11:59pm on Saturday 31 January 2026.
This guide will help you understand Self Assessment including how to register for Self Assessment with HMRC, how to file your first Self Assessment tax return, and key deadlines for Self Assessment.
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