Your guide to a hassle-free Self Assessment tax return
If you are preparing to submit your annual HMRC self assessment tax return, then you’re in the right place for guidance.
Instead of worrying about the self assessment tax return deadline and putting it off until the last minute, follow these steps from our tax accountants to make the whole process run smoothly. They might even save you some time and prevent you from making any vital errors.
If you’re not sure whether or not you have to submit a Self Assessment tax return in 2024, then take a look at our guide to completing a self assessment tax return for eligibility requirements. Alternatively, contact us for more information.
Get in touch with an Alexander & Co tax expert today.
Get everything in order before the self assessment tax return deadline
Are you registered with HMRC?
If this is your first time submitting a self assessment tax return, you will need to register with HMRC beforehand.
Head to the HMRC self assessment tax website to register and obtain a unique taxpayer reference (UTR) number, a unique identifier that is required for anyone wishing to submit a tax return in the UK. Note that this will be sent to you by post, which can take up to ten working days or longer during busy periods.
Gather all the relevant paperwork
Before sitting down to begin your tax return, you should collect all relevant paperwork to help support your self assessment submission. This could include:
- Personal and/or business invoices
- Bank statements
- Receipts
- Relevant forms such as P60, P45 or P11D
- Dividend vouchers
Start your self assessment tax return as soon as possible
HMRC often receives over 750,000 tax returns on the final day of submission. Our tax experts have warned that last-minute submissions could lead to more errors and mistakes in your tax return. There is also the possibility that the system may not be able to handle the demand and crash, leaving you unable to submit on time.
Instead, you should aim to complete your self assessment tax return ahead of the deadline. Starting today could save you lots of hassle before January comes around.
Get in touch with our tax advisors today for help with your self assessment tax return.
Self assessment tax return submission advice
Always double check your submission
It can be tempting to submit your self assessment tax return without checking it, especially if it has taken you a while to complete, but it’s always important to proofread your submission. Taking 10 minutes to check over your tax return could save you from paying self assessment tax financial penalties further down the line.
Beware of scams
HMRC has warned of increasing self assessment tax return scams ahead of the January 2024 deadline. This includes emails posing as HMRC and even scam phone calls. Please stay vigilant when submitting your tax return online to make sure you don’t pay for self assessment tax scams.
For assistance in completing your self assessment or more general tax advice, please contact our experienced tax team.
How Alexander & Co can assist you
If you’re uncertain about anything on your self assessment tax return, our team can complete your tax return on your behalf. Please contact us today on 0161 832 4841 or email info@alexander.co.uk for a fee quote.
Our accountants are on hand to help you submit your tax return the hassle-free way. With over 40 years of experience helping individuals submit their tax returns, you can be confident you’re in safe hands.
Get in touch with us today to receive a free quote.
