Self Assessment: Seven easy steps to completing your Tax Return

30 September after the end of the tax year – Paper Returns

• Your return must reach us by 30 September if you want us to include any underpayment of less than £2000 in you PAYE code number
  
• We will calculate your tax and let you know the amount payable by the 31 January payment date if we receive your return by this date. If we receive your return after this date and you haven't worked out your tax we will do it for you but can't guarantee to tell you what to pay by 31 January.
  
• Remember: If you file your Tax Return online all software and online forms will calculate your tax liability for you.

30 December after the end of the tax year – Online Return

If you file your Tax Return online by 30 December, (or 29 December if using ELS) and you owe less than £2000 we may be able to collect it through your PAYE tax code number.

• Remember: If you file your Tax Return online all software and online forms will calculate your tax liability for you.

31 January after the end of the tax year – Paper and Online Return

• You must file your Self Assessment Tax Return and pay anything that you owe by 31 January. If your return is not received by this date, you will be liable to an automatic penalty of £100, which will accrue interest on any amount due by 31 if received late.

Note: The deadline dates for Partnership Returns may be different - please see the information under ‘keydates’ on the Partnership section of the individuals & employees pages.

If you need extra pages:

• call the Self Assessment Orderline on 0845 9000 404. It is open 8am - 10pm, seven days a week and calls are charged at local rates.
  
• alternatively, you can fax your order to the SA Orderline on 0845 9000 604 or order online at the SA Orderline.
  
• If you are calling from abroad the SA Orderline telephone number is: 44 870 1555664 or fax: 44 870 1555778
  
• download the relevant forms from here

Note: You will not receive the Tax Return Guide (PDF 3.8 meg.) if you usually file your return online, or if your agent/tax adviser usually files your return.

• the Self Assessment team at your Inland Revenue Office (the telephone number is at the top of your return).
  
• Or when the office is closed, call the Self Assessment Helpline on 0845 9000 444. It's open evenings and weekends and calls are charged at local rates. (If you are calling from abroad the telephone number is: 44 541 555445).

Remember

• the earlier you complete your Tax Return, the more time you'll have to get help from us if you need it.
  
• sending in your Tax Return earlier doesn't mean you have to pay tax any earlier.