How do I know if need to file a Tax Return?
Tax can feel confusing, but we’re here to keep it simple.
A Tax Return (also called Self Assessment) is essentially a special form you send to HMRC (the tax office) to let them know about any income you had that they haven’t already taken tax from.
For most people who just have one job where tax is taken automatically (called PAYE), you usually don’t need to worry about a tax return.
If any of the situations below sound like you, there’s a good chance you need to send a Self Assessment Tax Return to HMRC.
You’re your own boss
You’re self-employed (even a small side hustle) and earned more than £1,000 before expenses.
You’re a landlord
You rent out a property, spare room or Airbnb and made more than £1,000 in rental income.
You’re a company director
This includes taking money out of your own company as dividends.
You’re a higher earner
You earn over £100,000 from your job, even if tax is already taken through PAYE.
You earn from savings or investments
You received £10,000 or more in interest or dividends that hasn’t already been taxed.
You sold something valuable
You sold things like shares, crypto, or a second home and may need to report Capital Gains Tax.
You have income from outside the UK
This could be foreign property, savings, pensions, or work done abroad.
You received untaxed income
You earned £2,500 or more that isn’t taxed through PAYE (e.g., tips, commission, small side income).
You receive Child Benefit
You or your partner earns over £60,000, which triggers the High Income Child Benefit Charge.
HMRC has asked you to complete a return
If they’ve written to you, you must file — even if you think you don’t need to.
