UK taxpayers have until January 31st to file their self-assessment tax returns for the tax year that ran from April 6th, 2024, to April 5th, 2025. Failing to meet this deadline can result in penalties and fines.
To avoid last-minute stress, it's recommended to set aside enough time over the next few days to complete your return. This will help you gather all necessary documents, such as your P60, P45, P11D, or PAYE coding notices and tax certificates for investments. You can also use HMRC's online tool to check if you need to do a self-assessment.
One of the most daunting sections on the form is often the pension section. However, claiming relief on your pension contributions is essential if you're eligible. There are different rules depending on whether you're in a "relief at source" scheme or not. If you're a higher-rate taxpayer, you'll need to claim extra relief.
Don't forget to include any regular charity donations that qualify for gift aid, as these can also be claimed against your income. The HMRC department is urging people to stay alert to potential scams before the deadline, reminding them never to click on suspicious links or share personal information.
For those who receive suspicious communications, they can forward emails to [email protected] and text messages to 60599. If you need help with your tax return, HMRC's YouTube channel offers short "how-to" videos that cover topics such as viewing your self-assessment tax return calculation or using the HMRC app to make a payment.
In addition to these tips, here are some key points to consider when filing your self-assessment:
* You'll need to report any gains and losses from cryptocurrency investments.
* Your "adjusted net income" will be important in determining how much child benefit you're eligible for.
* There's an earnings threshold of £60,000 a year for high-income earners who claim child benefit.
* Regular charity donations subject to gift aid should also be included in your return.
By following these tips and being aware of the potential scams, you can ensure a smooth and stress-free experience when filing your self-assessment tax return.
To avoid last-minute stress, it's recommended to set aside enough time over the next few days to complete your return. This will help you gather all necessary documents, such as your P60, P45, P11D, or PAYE coding notices and tax certificates for investments. You can also use HMRC's online tool to check if you need to do a self-assessment.
One of the most daunting sections on the form is often the pension section. However, claiming relief on your pension contributions is essential if you're eligible. There are different rules depending on whether you're in a "relief at source" scheme or not. If you're a higher-rate taxpayer, you'll need to claim extra relief.
Don't forget to include any regular charity donations that qualify for gift aid, as these can also be claimed against your income. The HMRC department is urging people to stay alert to potential scams before the deadline, reminding them never to click on suspicious links or share personal information.
For those who receive suspicious communications, they can forward emails to [email protected] and text messages to 60599. If you need help with your tax return, HMRC's YouTube channel offers short "how-to" videos that cover topics such as viewing your self-assessment tax return calculation or using the HMRC app to make a payment.
In addition to these tips, here are some key points to consider when filing your self-assessment:
* You'll need to report any gains and losses from cryptocurrency investments.
* Your "adjusted net income" will be important in determining how much child benefit you're eligible for.
* There's an earnings threshold of £60,000 a year for high-income earners who claim child benefit.
* Regular charity donations subject to gift aid should also be included in your return.
By following these tips and being aware of the potential scams, you can ensure a smooth and stress-free experience when filing your self-assessment tax return.