When should I register for self assessment?

Self Assessment blog header

If you’ve received over £1000 self employment income during the tax year 6th April – 5th April, you will need to register for self-assessment by the 5th of October following the end of the tax year. 

 

For example, for the tax year 2022/2023 you have until the 5th October 2023.

 

This isn’t the date you need to complete your tax return by, it’s just the date to register by so that HMRC know to expect a tax return from you in the near future.

 

How do I register?

You’ll need to register through your business tax account on gov.uk for Self Assessment and Class 2 National Insurance.

You’ll need a Government Gateway user ID and password to sign in. If you do not have a user ID, you’ll be able to create one online.

You’ll get your Unique Taxpayer Reference (UTR) by post in 15 working days (21 days if you’re abroad). You’ll get it sooner in your online personal tax account or on the HMRC app.

HMRC will then contact you by email or post telling you to complete a Self Assessment tax return before it’s due.

You don’t need to register every year, just the first time!

 

If you don’t have your gateway log in or your UTR then you will need to allow extra time to get these so don’t leave it until the last minute!

 

Head to the gov.uk website to get started.

 

How can PPF help?

If you’d like to work with a jargon-free accountant, that can give you the peace of mind to focus on your business rather than the finances, then check out our services for Sole Traders or Ltd Companies for more information or fill in our Quick Questionnaire to book in a free 15-minute discovery call.