Managing your taxes in the UK doesn’t have to feel overwhelming. Whether you’re an employee, self-employed, or a business owner, knowing the key dates and deadlines of the UK tax year is essential to avoid penalties, plan effectively, and stay compliant with HMRC regulations. This guide breaks down everything you need to know about the UK tax year, from start and end dates to crucial filing deadlines and tips for staying on top of your obligations.
What Is the UK Tax Year?
The UK tax year is the official 12-month period that HMRC uses to assess income, calculate tax liabilities, and determine eligibility for allowances and reliefs. Unlike the standard calendar year (January to December), the UK tax year runs from 6 April to 5 April of the following year.
This unusual timing dates back to historic changes in calendar systems, but it remains the framework within which all UK taxpayers must report their income and file their returns.
Key UK Tax Year Dates
Here’s a breakdown of the most important dates you should mark in your calendar:
- 6 April – Start of the new tax year. From this date, your income and expenses start counting towards the new reporting period.
- 31 July – Deadline for making the second payment on account (if you’re self-employed and your tax bill requires it).
- 5 October – Deadline for registering with HMRC if you became self-employed or started a new source of income in the previous tax year.
- 31 October – Deadline for filing a paper self-assessment tax return.
- 31 January – Deadline for submitting online self-assessment tax returns and paying any tax owed for the previous year. It’s also the deadline for the first payment on account for the current year.
- 5 April – End of the tax year. All income, expenses, and allowances must be finalised by this date.
Why These Deadlines Matter
Missing HMRC deadlines can result in fines, interest charges, and unnecessary stress. For example:
- Filing late can trigger a minimum penalty of £100, even if you have no tax to pay.
- Delays beyond three months attract daily penalties of £10 per day (up to 90 days).
- Late payments accrue interest, and extended delays may trigger additional surcharges.
Understanding these dates gives you a clear roadmap for planning your finances, avoiding penalties, and making the most of tax allowances.
Who Needs to File a Tax Return?
Not everyone in the UK has to complete a self-assessment return. HMRC automatically deducts tax from most employees’ salaries through the PAYE (Pay As You Earn) system. However, you may need to file if you:
- Are self-employed or a sole trader earning more than £1,000.
- Are a partner in a business partnership.
- Have untaxed income, such as rental property or dividends.
- Earn more than £100,000 per year.
- Receive income from overseas.
- Claim certain tax reliefs or allowances not handled through PAYE.
If any of these apply, it’s crucial to register with HMRC and submit your return by the appropriate deadline.
Tips for Staying on Top of the UK Tax Year
Managing your tax obligations doesn’t need to be stressful if you stay organised. Here are some strategies to keep things running smoothly:
- Keep Accurate Records – Store receipts, invoices, and expense logs throughout the year to avoid scrambling in April.
- Use HMRC’s Online Tools – Setting up a personal tax account makes it easier to track payments, check deadlines, and submit returns.
- Budget for Tax Payments – Especially if you’re self-employed, setting aside funds regularly can prevent last-minute cash flow problems.
- Consider Professional Advice – An accountant or tax adviser can help optimise your tax position, claim allowances, and avoid mistakes.
- File Early – Submitting your return ahead of deadlines not only reduces stress but also speeds up any tax refund due.
Changes to Watch Out For
The UK tax system evolves regularly, with new allowances, thresholds, and rules announced in annual Budgets. Recent changes, such as freezes on personal allowance thresholds and adjustments to dividend and capital gains tax rates, highlight why staying up to date matters.
Keeping track of these changes ensures you don’t miss opportunities for savings or accidentally underpay tax.
The UK tax year runs from 6 April to 5 April, with key deadlines spread throughout the year that every taxpayer should know. Whether you’re an employee with PAYE or a self-employed business owner managing self-assessment, understanding these dates and planning ahead will save you money, time, and stress.
By keeping good records, filing early, and using professional support where needed, you’ll stay compliant and confident throughout the tax year.
FAQs on the UK Tax Year
- Why does the UK tax year start on 6 April?
The UK tax year dates back to the 18th century, when calendar reforms shifted New Year’s Day from 25 March to 1 January. To keep tax collection consistent, the start was eventually moved to 6 April. - What happens if I miss the 31 January deadline?
You’ll face an automatic £100 fine, with additional penalties and interest accruing the longer you delay. - Do employees under PAYE need to file a tax return?
Not usually. However, you may need to if you earn additional untaxed income, such as from self-employment or rental property. - When should I register for self-assessment?
If you became self-employed or received a new source of untaxed income in the previous tax year, you must register with HMRC by 5 October. - Can I amend a tax return after filing?
Yes. You can make changes up to 12 months after the filing deadline for the relevant tax year.
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