Pauline Green, Head of Product Compliance & Programs at Intuit QuickBooks UK, has put together 10 lesser-known tips to keep in mind when filing your tax return to make the experience smoother and stress-free this year.

1. Self Assessment isn’t just for the self-employed

Many people associate Self Assessment with self-employed individuals, but the reality is that anyone with untaxed income could be required to file. This includes those who earn income from renting property, commission, tips, investments, or even from a second job. Other situations in which you may need to file include receiving the High Income Child Benefit Charge, paying Capital Gains Tax, or earning over £150,000 a year. Even if you are a full-time employee, it’s essential to check if your circumstances require you to file a tax return.

2. It’s your responsibility to determine if you need to file

While some might assume that HMRC will notify them if they need to file, this is not always the case. It’s generally the taxpayer’s responsibility to assess their situation and inform HMRC if a tax return is required. HMRC may contact you if they know you need to file – such as if you are registered as self-employed or are a high earner (above 150,000) – but it’s still important to confirm your status. If in doubt, speaking to an accountant or tax professional who can help ensure you are filing correctly.

3. You might be eligible for tax relief

Self-employed individuals or business owners should be aware of the potential tax relief available, which can help reduce the amount of tax owed. For example, if you purchase items for your business using your own money, such as equipment or software exclusively used for work, you may be able to claim tax relief on these expenses. Additionally, if you work from home, you may be able to claim a portion of your household expenses – such as gas and electricity – as business costs. Keeping track of all potential tax-relief opportunities can result in significant savings. Learn more about allowable expenses for self-employed tax relief here.

4. Thresholds matter when filing

Not all income requires a Self Assessment tax return. If you are self-employed or a sole trader, you only need to file if your income exceeds £1,000, before considering allowable expenses. Similarly, rental income only needs to be reported if the profit exceeds £2,500 or £10,000 before expenses. Understanding these thresholds will help ensure you don’t mistakenly file when it isn’t necessary.

5. Notify HMRC if your circumstances change

If your situation changes and you no longer need to file a Self Assessment – perhaps due to ceasing self-employment or falling below the filing threshold – you must notify HMRC. Failing to do so may result in HMRC still expecting a tax return, potentially leading to penalties for missing the deadline. Even if you’ve already informed HMRC of a change in circumstances, it’s wise to double-check that they have updated your records.

6. Filing may be required even if you don’t owe tax

There is a common misconception that filing a Self Assessment is only necessary if you owe tax. In fact, there are many situations where you may still be required to file a tax return, even if you don’t owe anything. These include claiming a tax refund, making pension contributions, donating to charity, or paying voluntary National Insurance contributions. Filing is often essential for maintaining accurate records and ensuring your finances remain compliant with HMRC regulations.

7. Paper and online filing have different deadlines

If you choose to file a paper tax return, be aware that the deadline is earlier than for online submissions – 31st October versus 31st January. Additionally, paper forms must be posted in advance to ensure they reach HMRC on time, so it’s important to account for postage. Due to the earlier deadline and potential delays, many people opt for online filing to avoid penalties.

8. Marriage allowance can be applied through Self Assessment

Married couples and civil partners may be eligible for the Marriage Allowance, which allows the transfer of part of a tax-free Personal Allowance between partner’s. Both tax payer must be on the basic rate or below to be eligible If you have someone who is not utilising all of their personal allowance up to 10% of the personal allowance can be transferred to a tax paying partner – subject to eligibility, which could be worth up to £252 a year. To apply for the Marriage Allowance, you must file a Self Assessment tax return.

9. You can file your Self Assessment early

Although the official deadline may seem far off, there’s no rule saying you can’t file your tax return early. In fact, many people take advantage of the early filing period to avoid the last-minute rush. In fact, Government research revealed almost 300,000 people file in the first week of the tax year. However, our Self Assessment survey suggested that over 45% of respondents only planned on beginning their tax return the month it was due.

Preparing early and filing also helps you process any tax refunds faster, although it doesn’t change the payment deadline, so don’t forget to pay if you have submitted early and still have tax due. Getting it done ahead of time can also help alleviate the stress of waiting until the last possible moment.

10. Payment plans are available

If you owe tax but can’t afford to pay the full amount at once, HMRC offers payment plans to help ease the burden. To be eligible, you must have filed your tax return, owe £30,000 or less, and be within 60 days of the payment deadline. Additionally, if you want to avoid financial stress next year, you can set up a payment plan in advance, spreading the cost of your tax bill over monthly or weekly instalments. Understand the different ways to pay Self Assessment tax with this guide.

Self Assessment tax returns can be difficult to navigate, but it doesn’t need to be such a headache if you’re able to get informed and seek professional advice. Staying organised, making small steps to make big savings, and taking responsibility for your HMRC status can help you avoid unnecessary anxiety and penalties.

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