Your guide to a hassle-free Self Assessment tax return
If you are preparing to submit your annual tax return to HMRC, then you’re in the right place for guidance.
Instead of worrying about your tax return or 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 2022, then take a look at our guide to completing a Self Assessment for eligibility requirements.
Get everything in order beforehand
Are you registered with HMRC?
If this is your first time submitting a tax return, you will need to register with HMRC beforehand. Head to the HMRC 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 at 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 sooner rather than later
Last year, HMRC received 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 ahead of the January deadline. If you are yet to complete your tax return now that January has arrived, you still have time to do so. Starting today could save you lots of hassle later on in the month.
Get an accountant to assist you
If you’re uncertain about anything on your Self Assessment tax return, contact our expert team today on 0161 832 4841 or email info@alexander.co.uk. 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.
Always double check your submission
It can be tempting to submit your tax return without checking over it, especially if it has taken you a while to complete, but it’s always important to proof your submission. Taking 10 minutes to check over your Self Assessment tax return could save you from financial penalties further down the line.
Beware of scams
HMRC has warned of increasing Self Assessment scams ahead of the January deadline. This includes emails posing as HMRC and even scam phone calls. Please stay vigilant when submitting your tax return online and should you be looking for assistance in completing your Self Assessment or require more general tax advice, please contact our tax team.
