Tax – what to do and by when
Self Assessment registration, filing and payment deadlines, plus checking your tax code.
- Register for Self Assessment by 5 October
If you started self-employment or letting property and have not filed a tax return before, tell HMRC by 5 October after the end of the tax year (tax years run from 6 April to 5 April).
Checked 21/10/2026 - Paper Self Assessment tax return deadline: 31 October
A paper tax return for the last tax year (6 April to 5 April) must reach HMRC by 11:59pm on 31 October.
Checked 21/10/2026 - Self Assessment: file online and pay your tax by 31 January
File your online tax return for the last tax year and pay the tax you owe by 11:59pm on 31 January.
Checked 21/10/2026 - Second Self Assessment payment on account due by 31 July
If you make payments on account, the second one is due by midnight on 31 July.
Checked 20/10/2026 - Check your tax code and Income Tax for this year
Sign in to your HMRC online account or the HMRC app to check your tax code, Personal Allowance and estimated income.
Checked 20/10/2026