One of the most intimidating aspects of freelance life can be the idea of staying on top of taxes. Without an employer to provide regular pay and make tax deductions, it can be easy to lose the plot and let tax obligations slip your mind.

Here are the key dates that all UK freelancers (and anyone who is self-employed) need to keep in mind throughout the financial year. We also have this short video!

31^st January

This is the submission deadline for the online tax return which relates to the previous tax year. So, if you need to submit a tax return for the tax year which ends in the previous April, submit it by this date. It’s also the payment deadline for that period.

5^th April

This is the final day of the tax year. You’ll be able to submit your Self Assessment tax return for this tax year from the 6th April onwards. HMRC will send you a reminder notice if you’ve already registered as self-employed.

31^st July (after the end of the tax year)

The second payment on account for the tax year ending on the previous 5^th April) is due on July 31^st of each year.

5th October (following the end of the previous tax year)

You must register for Self Assessment by this deadline, if you need to tell HMRC about untaxed income from the previous tax year.

31st October (following the end of the previous tax year)

October 31^st is the deadline for sending HMRC a paper tax return. If you send a paper form in after this date, you will be penalised (even if you owe no tax). So, before you head out for Hallowe’en, make sure you have sent in that return!

30^th December (following the end of the previous tax year)

December 30^th is the deadline for filing your tax return online if you are claiming pension income or employment income, and you want to collect your tax through your PAYE code.

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About The Author

Beth-Anne Bruce

I'm an experienced and fully AAT and ACCA qualified accountant, who is enthusiastic about helping business owners succeed. I also love cooking and needlepoint (at different times!). Learn more about Beth.

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