Managing your taxes in the UK doesn’t have to be stressful, especially when you know the critical tax year dates. Whether you own a company, rent, or work for yourself, knowing these dates can help you keep on target and prevent fines. Being organised enables you to avoid unexpected expenses resulting from missing deadlines. Maintaining the form of your money depends on knowing this chronology from the beginning of the tax year to the vital filing and payroll deadlines. This guide will cover the crucial dates you should know for a seamless tax season.
When Does The New Tax Year Start?
The UK tax year falls between April 6th and April 5th the following year. Remember, the calendar, financial, and tax years are all unique! Maintaining control of your taxes requires an awareness of the correct dates.
These are the important significant dates for the UK tax year to be aware of:
Key Tax Dates and Deadlines | Deadline | Details |
UK Tax Year Dates | April 6th – April 5th | The UK tax year starts on April 6th and ends on April 5th the following year. |
Self Assessment Registration | October 5th | Must register for Self Assessment by this date. Register here |
Paper Filing Deadline | October 31st | Deadline for submitting paper tax returns. |
Online Filing Deadline | January 31st | Final deadline for filing Self Assessment online. |
P11D Submission Deadline | July 6th | Submit P11D form to report benefits and expenses for the previous tax year. |
Income Tax Payment Deadline | January 31st | Income tax must be paid by this date for the previous tax year. |
Second Payment on Account | July 31st | Self-employed individuals must make their second Payment on Account. |
P11D Payment Deadline | July 22nd | Pay Class 1A National Insurance contributions for benefits and expenses reported on P11D. |
This table shows a basic overview of the tax year and deadlines, facilitating your remaining ability.
Key Deadlines For Claiming Your VAT Refund
VAT returns must be filed for UK VAT-registered small companies four times a year. The deadline for each quarter is set one month and seven days after the period’s conclusion.
VAT Return Period | Filing Deadline | Details |
1st January – 31st March | 7th May | VAT return for Q1 must be submitted by 7th May. |
1st April – 30th June | 7th August | VAT return for Q2 must be submitted by 7th August. |
1st July – 30th September | 7th November | VAT return for Q3 must be submitted by 7th November. |
1st October – 31st December | 7th February (following year) | VAT return for Q4 must be submitted by 7th February of the following year. |
Every VAT-registered company has to follow Making Tax Digital (MTD) rules using MTD-compliant tools.
Dividends Taxes at What Rate?
Dividends are taxed differently in the UK than average income. Your Income Tax Band determines your tax rate. The rates are as follows as of the tax years 2024/25:
- Introductory Rate (20%) taxpayers: Dividends are taxed at 8.75%.
- Dividends are taxed at 33.75% for 40% taxpayers.
- Dividends are taxed at 39.35% of taxpayers’ additional Rate.
Given everyone’s £1,000 dividend limit, the first £1,000 dividends are tax-free. Any profits outside this limit will be liable to the relevant rates. Your Self-assessment tax return shows declared dividends; keeping track of them is crucial to guarantee accurate tax filing.
Who Needs to Know These Dates?
The UK tax year covers a spectrum of people and companies. If you fit any of the following groups, you should keep informed:
- Individual and lone traders: Whether you work for yourself or someone else, you must submit a tax return if your income is untaxed or more than a certain level.
- Limited firms must pay corporation tax and disclose their earnings, matching their accounting cycles to the UK tax year.
- Landlords and independent contractors: These dates are crucial as income from freelancing or property rental has to be declared.
What Happens If You Miss a Tax Deadline?
Not meeting HMRC deadlines might lead to a range of fines and penalties. For instance, missing the January 31 deadline for online tax return filings will immediately result in a £100 fee; further penalties will apply the longer the delay runs. Furthermore, imposed interest on overdue taxes adds to your whole financial load.
How to Get Ready for Deadlines for Taxes
Maintaining an organization all year long can help you to prevent tax-related stress. This is how you get ready
- Sort financial information: To simplify your file, routinely monitor your income, spending, and tax-related records.
- Create reminders. Remind yourself of approaching deadlines with calendar notifications or apps to prevent missing significant dates.
- See a professional for guidance. If tax concerns seem daunting, hiring an accountant or tax counsellor can help guarantee that everything is submitted accurately and on time
Final Thought
Knowing the important dates for the tax year is crucial for maintaining current financial obligations. Organising your finances and tracking these dates can help you be ready to submit your tax returns and prevent fines. Stay proactive; if you ever need assistance, Quilliammarr.co.uk is here to help you navigate the procedure so that your tax management operates year-round without incident.
FAQs
1. What time does the UK’s tax year begin and end?
The tax year in the UK runs from April 6 to April 5 of the following year. This is the time frame within which you determine your salary and tax responsibilities.
2. When is the last day to sign up for Self Assessment?
The last day to sign up for Self Assessment is October 5, the year after the tax year for which you must file a report. This is important for people who work for themselves or have other income that isn’t taxed.
3. When do I have to file my income tax return?
The last day to send in paper tax forms is October 31. The due date for online entries is January 31 of the following year. If you file on time, you can avoid late fees and fines.
4. When do I have to pay my tax?
January 31 is the last day to pay your income tax. If you work for yourself, you must make a second payment to your account by July 31.
5. What does “payment on account” mean?
You can pay some of your taxes early next year by making a Payment on Account. The amount you pay is based on your current tax bill. This has to be paid for in two parts, on January 31 and July 31.
6. When is the P11D due date?
Every year, employers have until July 6 to send HMRC P11D forms. These forms list the costs and perks that were given to workers.
7. When is the last day to file a VAT return?
Usually, VAT reports are sent every three months. A VAT return is due one month and seven days after the end of the VAT period. For example, a VAT return for the period from January 1 to March 31 is due by May 7
8. In the UK, how are earnings taxed?
Depending on your income, dividends are taxed at different rates. Tax rates are 8.75% for people who pay the introductory rate, 33.75% for people who pay the higher rate, and 39.35% for people who pay the extra rate. Dividends up to £1000 are tax-free.
9. Can I turn in my Self Assessment early?
You can file your Self Assessment tax return immediately after April 5, when the tax year finishes. If you file your taxes early, you can keep track of them better and escape the rush at the last minute.
10. How do I pay my tax bill?
There are several ways to pay your tax bill: online at HMRC, by bank transfer (BACS), direct debit, or by sending a check. To avoid fees, make sure you pay on time.