Tackling your first self-assessment tax return as a sole trader in the UK can feel like entering a labyrinth. With deadlines to m eet, complex forms, and taxes to calculate, it's no wonder small business owners feel overwhelmed. Filing your tax return doesn't have to be a labyrinth. It can be a straightforward process.
By taking control of your finances and understanding your tax obligations, you can transform your tax return from a dreaded chore into an opportunity to reflect on your business's successes and plan for the future. With accurate record-keeping, savvy expense management, and some know-how, you can stay on top of your taxes and avoid unwanted surprises.
Speak with one of our friendly experts and find out how we can help you save tax, reduce admin and file with HMRC.
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A self-assessment tax return is a form you must fill in to declare your income and expenses to HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC). The form calculates how much income tax and National Insurance you must pay. As a sole trader, you must complete a self-assessment tax return yearly if you earned more than £1,000 in the tax year (6 April to 5 April).
The deadline for filing your tax return online is 31 January, following the end of the tax year. So, for example, if your tax year runs from 6 April 2022 to 5 April 2023, your tax return will be due on 31 January 2024.
If you miss the deadline, you'll face a penalty fee, which starts at £100 and increases the longer you leave it.
Your tax return needs to include details of all the income you received during the tax year and any expenses you incurred that were related to your business.
Income can come from a variety of sources, including:
It's essential to keep accurate records of all your income and expenses throughout the year to quickly fill in your tax return at the end of the year.
Before filing your tax return, you must register for self-assessment with HMRC. You can do this online or by post.
To register online, you'll need to create a Government Gateway account. You can do this on the HMRC website by clicking the "Register for Self Assessment" link.
To register by post, you must fill in form CWF1 and send it to HMRC. You can find the form on the HMRC website.
Registering for self-assessment as soon as possible is essential to get your Unique Taxpayer Reference (UTR) number, which you'll need to fill in your tax return.
Once you've registered for self-assessment and received your UTR number, you can start filling in your tax return.
Two ways to fill in your tax return are online or by post. Filing online is quicker and more accessible, and you'll get an instant acknowledgement that HMRC has received your tax return.
You'll need to use HMRC's online service to file your tax return online. You can access this by logging in to your Government Gateway account and clicking the "Self Assessment" link.
When you fill in your tax return, you must provide income and expense details. You'll also need to pay any tax you owe by the deadline.
If you're filing by post, you must download the relevant tax return form from the HMRC website and fill it in by hand. You'll then need to send the completed form to HMRC and any payments due.
Filing your tax return can be a complicated process, but there are a few tips that can make it easier:
Once you've filed your tax return, HMRC will calculate how much tax and National Insurance you owe based on your provided information. They'll then send you a statement showing how much you need to pay.
If you owe less than £3,000, you can pay your tax bill in one go or in instalments. If you owe more than £3,000, you must pay your tax bill in instalments.
You can pay your tax bill online or by post. HMRC accepts various payment methods, including credit or debit cards, bank transfers, or direct debit.
Filing your first self-assessment tax return as a sole trader can be overwhelming, but it doesn't have to be. By keeping accurate records, understanding your tax obligations, and seeking professional help, you can ensure your tax return is filled in correctly and on time.
Remember, the deadline for filing your tax return is 31 January, following the end of the tax year. Don't leave it until the last minute to avoid unnecessary stress and penalties.
Get the best advice on tax savings, accounting services, payroll, self assessment, VAT and more, whether you want to call us directly, request a call back or chat online with our experts, rest assured that we will always give you the best advice.If you have any questions, or would like to speak to us in person, please do get in touch. We're here to help.
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