Self assessment – tax return survival guide

Self Assessment rarely sits at the top of anyone’s to-do list. Deadlines creep up, paperwork hides in inboxes and the rules change just enough to raise questions. This guide is here to make the job simpler. It sets out who needs to file a tax return, what to gather, how to complete the return and the steps to take to avoid penalties and interest.

You will find clear, practical checklists and straightforward explanations. We keep the focus on what you need to do, when you need to do it, and how to keep your bill accurate and on time. If anything in your situation has changed, such as new income, a property sale or pension contributions, this guide will help you work out what that means for your return and what to do next.

Common tax return pitfalls we see:

Missing interest and small dividends – Banks and platforms don’t always issue year-end summaries, download them. The PSA and £500 dividend allowance still require you to declare the income where a return is needed.

Wrong student loan plan type – Double-check your plan to avoid incorrect deductions.

Under-claiming pension or Gift Aid relief – Make sure you claim higher/additional-rate relief on contributions and Gift Aid.

Payments on account surprises – New filers or those with rising income can be caught out in January. Review the figures and budget early; reduce them only when you have a sound basis.

CGT rate split for 2024/25 – If you sold assets around 30 October 2024, ensure you apply the correct rates now required.

Filing early gives you time to check the numbers, claim reliefs correctly and plan for any payments on account. Use the checklist, keep your records in one place and review any items that often get missed, such as savings interest, small dividends, Gift Aid and pension top-ups. If you expect your income to fall, consider whether a payments-on-account reduction is sensible. If paying in full is difficult, look at Time to Pay before charges build up.

If you would like a review of your draft return, a second check on reliefs or help preparing and filing from start to finish, we can step in at any stage. Share what has changed for you this year and we will apply the rules in this guide to your situation so you can file with confidence.