GOV.UK
Overview
Self Assessment is a system HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) uses to collect Income Tax.
Tax is usually deducted automatically from wages, pensions and savings. People and businesses with other income must report it in a tax return.
If you need to send one, you fill it in after the end of the tax year (5 April) it applies to.
Who must send a tax return
You must send a tax return if, in the last tax year (6 April to 5 April), you were:
- self-employed as a ‘sole trader’ and earned more than £1,000 (before taking off anything you can claim tax relief on)
- a partner in a business partnership
You will not usually need to send a return if your only income is from your wages or pension. But you may need to send one if you have any other untaxed income, such as:
- money from renting out a property
- tips and commission
- income from savings, investments and dividends
- foreign income
Deadlines
HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) must receive your tax return and any money you owe by the deadline.
The last tax year started on 6 April 2019 and ended on 5 April 2020.
How to get help
If you need help with Self Assessment, you can:
- appoint someone to fill in and send your tax return, for example an accountant, friend or relative – you can find an accountant accredited in the UK
- watch videos and join webinars
- contact HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) for general Self Assessment enquiries
- get help with your online account
