{"id":5695,"date":"2025-11-28T16:55:59","date_gmt":"2025-11-28T16:55:59","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-gb\/blog\/?p=5695"},"modified":"2026-01-06T16:28:20","modified_gmt":"2026-01-06T16:28:20","slug":"file-a-tax-return-online","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-gb\/blog\/file-a-tax-return-online\/","title":{"rendered":"How to file a Self Assessment tax return online: A step-by-step guide"},"content":{"rendered":"<header class=\"entry-header has-dark-background-color entry-header--has-illustration entry-header--has-illustration--generic\">\n\t<div class=\"container\">\n\t\t<div class=\"entry-header__row row align-center\">\n\t\t\t<div class=\"col col-lg-7 col-xlg-6 entry-header__content\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"component component-single-header\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"entry-header__misc text--subtitle text--uppercase text--small\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<a href=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-gb\/blog\/category\/money-matters\/\" class=\"entry-header__link\">Money Matters<\/a>\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"entry-title-wrapper\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<h1 class=\"entry-title\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\tHow to file a Self Assessment tax return online: A step-by-step guide\t\t\t\t\t<\/h1>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<p class=\"entry-header__description\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/p>\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t<\/div>\n\t\t<div class=\"single-post-details container\">\n\t\t<div class=\"col\">\n\t\t\t<span class=\"posted-on \"><time class=\"entry-date published\" datetime=\"2025-11-28T16:55:59+00:00\">28 November, 2025<\/time><\/span><span class=\"reading-time\"> min read<\/span>\n\t\t<button\n\t\t\ttype=\"button\"\n\t\t\tclass=\"social-share-button button button--icon button--secondary js-social-share-button\"\n\t\t\tdata-share-title=\"How to file a Self Assessment tax return online: A step-by-step guide\"\n\t\t\tdata-share-url=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-gb\/blog\/file-a-tax-return-online\/\"\n\t\t\tdata-share-text=\"Please read this interesting article\"\n\t\t>\n\t\t\t<span class=\"social-share-button__share-label\">Share<\/span>\n\t\t\t<span class=\"social-share-button__copy-label\" hidden>Copy Link<\/span>\n\t\t\t<span class=\"social-share-button__copy-tooltip\" aria-hidden=\"true\" hidden>Copied<\/span>\n\t\t<\/button>\n\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t<\/div>\n\t<\/header>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-post-author has-dark-background-color alignfull\">\n\t<div class=\"container\">\n\t\t<div class=\"col\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"co-authors\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t<div class=\"entry-author-wrapper\">\n\t\t\t<a class=\"entry-author\" href=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-gb\/blog\/author\/timcooper\/\">\n\t\t\t\t<img decoding=\"async\" alt=\"\" src=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-gb\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/10\/2018\/11\/tim-cooper.jpg\" class=\"entry-author__image\" height=\"40\" width=\"40\" fetchpriority=\"high\" \/>\t\t\t\t<span class=\"entry-author__name\">Tim Cooper<\/span>\n\t\t\t<\/a>\n\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n\n\n<p>Do you need to file a tax return online by Self Assessment deadline of 31 January? Does the thought of how to do a tax return online make you quake in your boots? Are you new to Self Assessment and wonder where to start?&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>While some people start early and file their tax returns on the first day of the new tax year, if that doesn\u2019t sound like you, don\u2019t worry.&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The easiest way to file a Self Assessment tax return is online because it cuts out postal delays and extends your deadline a little into January.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Filing it online can seem daunting, especially if you\u2019re not technically minded, but good preparation can make it easier thank you think.&nbsp;It\u2019s worth getting it done a little earlier too, so it doesn\u2019t become too big or too urgent a task.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>If you need to\u202f<a href=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-gb\/blog\/get-self-assessment-right-each-time\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">file a tax return<\/a>, this article will offer some tips on how to fill in a Self Assessment tax return online form.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>We\u2019ll also provide you with details about dates, penalties, and allowable expenses, and look at why many businesses use an accountant.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>That last part is important because we\u2019re not claiming to offer legal or professional advice. If you\u2019re in any doubt, contact\u202f<a href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/log-in-register-hmrc-online-services\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">HMRC<\/a>\u202for a tax professional who be able to offer specialised assistance.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Is it easy to do tax return online taxes? Actually yes, so let\u2019s get started.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>This guide to filing a Self Assessment tax return covers the following topics:&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n<?xml encoding=\"utf-8\" ?><div class=\"wp-block-yoast-seo-table-of-contents yoast-table-of-contents\"><ul><li><a href=\"#h-what-is-making-tax-digital-and-does-it-affect-me\" data-level=\"2\">What is Making Tax Digital and does it affect me?<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#do\" data-level=\"2\">Do you need to file a tax return?<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#tax\" data-level=\"2\">Tax return dates and deadlines<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#how\" data-level=\"2\">How to register and file a tax return online<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#allowable\" data-level=\"2\">Allowable expenses<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#charity\" data-level=\"2\">Charity donations on tax returns<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#penalties\" data-level=\"2\">Penalties for filing late and appeals<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#pay\" data-level=\"2\">How to pay your tax<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#ways\" data-level=\"2\">Ways to pay<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#why\" data-level=\"2\">Why business owners may use an accountant and how much they cost<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#helps\" data-level=\"2\">How an accountant helps strategist Kerry Needs focus on her core strengths<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#final\" data-level=\"2\">Final thoughts on filing a tax return online<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#frequently\" data-level=\"2\">Frequently asked questions about Self Assessment tax returns<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-buttons is-layout-flex wp-block-buttons-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-button\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link wp-element-button\" href=\"#gate-b070c479-ac3c-48cf-b77a-f696b6d06d6b\">Get the support you need with your tax returns by downloading your free copy of Get Self Assessment right each time<\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-what-is-making-tax-digital-and-does-it-affect-me\">What is Making Tax Digital and does it affect me?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Making Tax Digital (MTD) for Income Tax will soon replace Self Assessment tax returns for many sole traders and landlords who fall within its scope\u2014although it&#8217;s important to note that Self Assessment will continue and still be used by many people. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>MTD for Income Tax is being rolled out across several phases. When and if you have to start will depend on your gross qualifying income, as follows:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>April 2026: If your gross qualifying income is over \u00a350,000.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>April 2027: If your gross qualifying income is over \u00a330,000.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>April 2028: If your gross qualifying income is over \u00a320,000. <\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>Anybody outside of this will continue to use Self Assessment. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>We&#8217;ve covered MTD for Income Tax in-depth here at Sage Advice. These blogs will give you superb explanations of what the requirements are, and what you need to do if it affects you:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-gb\/blog\/mtd-for-income-tax-complete-guide\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Making Tax Digital for Income Tax explained (free guide)<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-gb\/blog\/dont-panic-a-sole-traders-guide-to-mtd-for-income-tax-april-2026-deadline\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Don\u2019t panic! A sole trader\u2019s guide to MTD for Income Tax (April 2026 deadline)<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-gb\/blog\/self-assessment-ending-making-tax-digital-sole-traders\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Self Assessment and Making Tax Digital: What MTD for Income Tax means for sole traders<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"single-cta gated-content\">\n\t<div class=\"single-cta__positioner\">\n\t\t<div class=\"single-cta__wrapper has-dark-background-color\">\n\t\t\t<div class=\"single-cta__content\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<h2 class=\"single-cta__title h3\">E-Book: Switching from Self Assessment to Making Tax Digital<\/h2>\n\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"single-cta__description\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<p><!-- wp:paragraph --><\/p>\n<p>Worried about following MTD&#8217;s rules in April 2026? This brief yet comprehensive guide explains what you need to know: How you do accounting now, and how you should do it in future.<\/p>\n<p><!-- \/wp:paragraph --><\/p>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<a\n\t\t\t\t\t\thref=\"#gate-3b52a309-fae9-49fa-a235-03fc76c551a0\"\n\t\t\t\t\t\tclass=\"single-cta__button button button--primary\"\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t>Get MTD for Income Tax: A Guide to Switching From Self Assessment<\/a>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\n\t\t\t\t\t<img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1215\" height=\"810\" src=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-gb\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/10\/2023\/09\/GettyImages-1385092066-1215x810.jpg\" class=\"single-cta__image\" alt=\"\" loading=\"lazy\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-gb\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/10\/2023\/09\/GettyImages-1385092066-1215x810.jpg 1215w\" sizes=\"auto, (min-width: 48em) 33vw, 100vw\" \/>\t\t\t<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"do\"><strong>Do you need to file a tax return?<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>For employees and pensioners, tax is typically deducted automatically at source from wages and pensions.&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>But people and businesses with other income not deducted at source and above a certain level, like income from shares, collecting rent from property lets, or if you\u2019re a freelancer must report it in a\u202f<a href=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-gb\/sage-business-cloud\/accounting\/features\/self-assessment\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Self Assessment tax return.<\/a>&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>If you were self-employed as a sole trader in the last tax year (6 April 2024 to 5 April 2025) and earned more than \u00a31,000, you need to file a tax return. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>This is still true if you have done any additional work around a full time job, like freelancing, or earned more with a side hustle, like selling on eBay, on top of any earnings from a PAYE job.&nbsp;This is regardless of whether your total income exceeds the Income Tax Personal Allowance of \u00a312,570.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>You must also file one if you were a partner in a business partnership or director of a limited company whose income is above the Personal Allowance, and which was not taxed at source. Examples typically include benefits or dividends. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Even if your primary income is from your wages or pension, you may still need to send a return if you work in specific sectors, were paid more than \u00a3100,000 via a PAYE salary scheme, or have any other untaxed income, such as from:&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Renting&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Tips and commission&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Savings, investments, and dividends&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Foreign income&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>You can also file a tax return online to claim some income tax relief\u202for prove you are self-employed, for example, to claim\u202f<a href=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-gb\/blog\/tax-free-childcare-payroll\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Tax-Free Childcare<\/a>\u202for maternity allowance.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>HMRC offers this\u202f<a href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/check-if-you-need-tax-return\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">decision tree<\/a>\u202fif you are still not sure whether you need to file a return.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Former Head of Enterprise at the Institute of Chartered Accountants in England and Wales (ICAEW), Nick Levine, offers some further advice: \u201cIf HMRC has sent you a notice to file a return, you must complete one.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u201cEven if you have not received such a notice, you may still need to file a tax return if you had a new source of income or capital gains in the last tax year on which you need to pay tax\u2014if so, tell HMRC straight away.\u201d&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>You also need to register for Self Assessment well before the 5 October deadline after the tax year you\u2019re declaring for.&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>So, if you are declaring for the April 24-April 25 tax year, the deadline to register for Self Assessment is 5 October 2025.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"single-cta gated-content\">\n\t<div class=\"single-cta__positioner\">\n\t\t<div class=\"single-cta__wrapper has-dark-background-color\">\n\t\t\t<div class=\"single-cta__content\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<h2 class=\"single-cta__title h3\">E-Book: Get Self Assessment right<\/h2>\n\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"single-cta__description\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<p><!-- wp:paragraph --><\/p>\n<p class=\"\">Download your free copy of this essential guide and get the support you need with your Self Assessment tax returns.<\/p>\n<p><!-- \/wp:paragraph --><\/p>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<a\n\t\t\t\t\t\thref=\"#gate-b070c479-ac3c-48cf-b77a-f696b6d06d6b\"\n\t\t\t\t\t\tclass=\"single-cta__button button button--primary\"\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t>Download your free guide<\/a>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"single-cta__downloads\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t1,200 readers have downloaded this guide\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\n\t\t\t\t\t<img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1440\" height=\"810\" src=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-gb\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/10\/2022\/04\/GettyImages-1146164056-1440x810.jpg\" class=\"single-cta__image\" alt=\"Woman applying for business credit line\" loading=\"lazy\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-gb\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/10\/2022\/04\/GettyImages-1146164056-1440x810.jpg 1440w\" sizes=\"auto, (min-width: 48em) 33vw, 100vw\" \/>\t\t\t<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"tax\"><strong>Tax return dates and deadlines<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Assuming you register for Self Assessment by the 5 October 2025 deadline, for the 2024\/25 tax year, there are a few key dates to remember.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>For filing paper tax returns, the filing deadline is&nbsp;midnight on 31 October 2025.&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The online filing deadline is midnight on 31 January 2026.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-pay-ments-on-account-nbsp\"><strong>Pay<\/strong><strong>ments on account<\/strong><strong><\/strong>&nbsp;<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>Once you\u2019ve completed your first tax return, in addition to whatever tax and National Insurance (NI) is due for the previous tax year, you may also have to make two payments towards your upcoming tax bill for the current tax year we\u2019re in right now.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>This is known as\u202f<a href=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-gb\/blog\/what-is-payment-on-account\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">payments on account<\/a>, and you\u2019ll have to do it every year moving forward.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The exception is if your last Self Assessment tax bill was less than \u00a31,000, or you\u2019ve already paid more than 80% of all the tax you owe at source in the previous year (note that underpaid tax collected via PAYE in the following year also counts as being deducted at source).&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The first deadline for paying the tax you owe on account is also <strong>midnight on 31 January<\/strong> for the first payment on account and <strong>31 July for the second<\/strong>.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"how\"><strong>How to register and file a tax return online<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Most tax returns are filed online because, according to HMRC, it\u2019s easy, secure, available 24 hours a day, and you can sign up for email alerts and online messages to help you manage your tax affairs.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>If you\u2019ve not completed a tax return online before, you must register for\u202f<a href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/log-in-file-self-assessment-tax-return\/register-if-youre-self-employed\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">an HMRC online account<\/a>.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>When you\u2019ve signed up, HMRC will post you an activation code, which can take 10 working days to arrive\u2014or up to 21 days if you are abroad\u2014so do this well in advance. You\u2019ll also receive a user ID and Unique Taxpayer Reference (UTR).&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>If you\u2019ve filed a return before, but not last year, you will need to register again.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Before applying online for Self Assessment, gather all the information you need in advance.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>You\u2019ll need your UTR, National Insurance number and employer reference if you have one. You may need your\u202f<a href=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-gb\/blog\/glossary\/what-is-a-p60\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">P60<\/a>\u202fend of year certificate, P11D expenses or benefits, P45 details of leaving work, payslips, and\/or your P2 PAYE coding notice.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Now you\u2019re ready to tackle how to fill in a tax return online form itself. (Here is the\u202f<a href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/publications\/self-assessment-tax-return-sa100\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">pdf version<\/a>\u202fof the printed form if you want to familiarise yourself with the sections and information you\u2019re likely to need to supply.)&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>You\u2019ll need your bank or building society statements at hand, and if you work for yourself, you will need your profit or loss&nbsp;account, or other business records too.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-the-self-assessment-form-nbsp\"><strong>The Self Assessment form<\/strong>&nbsp;<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>The first section asks for personal details.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The next asks about where you have received income or gains from, for example, employment or self-employment, a company or partnership, properties, trusts, capital gains, or from overseas.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Answer \u201cYes\u201d to any of the boxes in this section to show that you did receive income from any of these sources. This will cause further questions to appear asking about these sources of income.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The third section asks about income from bank or building society interest, pensions, share dividends, and benefits. It\u2019s important to mention these even if you\u2019re completing Self Assessment because you\u2019re a sole trader. HMRC needs to know about all your income, no matter where it comes from.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The form then asks for other information such as student loans, pension contributions, gifts, charitable donations, child benefit, and marriage allowances.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/publications\/self-assessment-tax-return-sa100\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">How to fill in your tax return<\/a>\u202fexplains all these pages, including supplementary pages, in more detail.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>But if anything is not clear,\u202f<a href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/organisations\/hm-revenue-customs\/contact\/self-assessment\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">contact HMRC<\/a>\u202fto ask for help.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Don\u2019t send any receipts, accounts, or other paperwork to HMRC supporting your Self Assessment return unless HMRC asks explicitly for them. Even then, you should only send copies and keep the originals safe.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>You\u2019re responsible for the information provided, so take your time filling in your information on your return. Enter the figures carefully and double-check everything before you click submit.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Nick Levine advises: \u201cFill in as much information as you can on your return. You can save the information you enter on each screen as you go along, allowing you to continue later.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u201cYou can go back and correct figures at any time before you hit the final submit button. Save a copy of your final return and print a copy of the receipt.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u201cIf there are significant changes to last year\u2019s return, explain why in the section for further information.\u201d&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-record-keeping-nbsp\"><strong>Record keeping<\/strong>&nbsp;<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>Assuming you file on time, you must keep records of all information used to complete your Self Assessment tax returns\u2014which is to say, your accounts and other information. Self-employed businesses should keep this for up to five years after the 31 January deadline each year.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>A significant penalty can apply for each failure to keep or preserve adequate records should HMRC come knocking at your door.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Furthermore, you should keep digital or paper copies of all tax return submissions and supporting documentation for at least 5 years after the 31 January filing deadline for that year, as required by HMRC.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-buttons is-layout-flex wp-block-buttons-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-button\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link wp-element-button\" href=\"#gate-b070c479-ac3c-48cf-b77a-f696b6d06d6b\">Get the support you need with your tax returns by downloading your free copy of Get Self Assessment right each time<\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"allowable\"><strong>Allowable expenses<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>If you are self-employed, your business will have various running costs. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>You can deduct some of these costs to work out your taxable profit providing they are&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-gb\/blog\/allowable-expenses-self-assessment-tax-return\/\">allowable expenses<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>These can include:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Costs of running an office, for example, stationery or phone bills.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Uniforms or protective clothing \u2013 although you generally can\u2019t claim for clothing such as business attire or shoes.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Staff costs, for example, salaries or subcontractor costs.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Financial costs, for example, insurance or bank charges.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Some or all of the fees paid to professionals, such as accountants or lawyers.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Costs of your business premises, for example, heating, lighting, and business rates.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Advertising or marketing, for example, website costs (but not entertaining costs, such as buying a client lunch!).<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>Charlie Walker, a senior partner at TaxAssist Accountants in Bedford, says HMRC\u2019s online filing system will calculate your tax liability, but it will not check whether your figures are correct or that you have claimed your full entitlement to expenses, reliefs and allowances.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u201cAllowances are a very broad area,\u201d he says. \u201cA few of the common or generous deductions and allowances are for research and development; use of home as an office, within certain limits; buildings bought for business use; and travel and accommodation when working away from home.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u201cDon\u2019t forget capital allowances such as expenditure on business equipment. Thanks to the&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/capital-allowances\/annual-investment-allowance\">annual investment allowance<\/a>, many capital allowances for SMEs such as plant and machinery offer up to 100% tax relief.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>As an alternative to claiming individual expenses, you may be able to claim&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/simpler-income-tax-simplified-expenses\">simplified expenses<\/a>, which are flat rates that you can use to calculate tax relief on vehicles, working from home and living on your business premises.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>This saves time but may mean you don\u2019t claim for all you might be able to.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Another option is to use the trading allowance instead of expenses to reduce your tax bill. The government allows sole traders to claim up to \u00a31,000 as a tax-free&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/guidance\/tax-free-allowances-on-property-and-trading-income\">trading allowance<\/a>, but if you use it, then you\u2019re not allowed to claim expenses or capital allowances.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-buttons is-layout-flex wp-block-buttons-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-button\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link wp-element-button\" href=\"#gate-b070c479-ac3c-48cf-b77a-f696b6d06d6b\">Get the support you need with your tax returns by downloading your free copy of Get Self Assessment right each time<\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"charity\"><strong>Charity donations on tax returns<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Donations by individuals to charity or community amateur sports clubs (CASCs) attract tax relief, so make sure you include all charitable donations in your return.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The tax relief goes to you or the charity depending on whether you donate through Gift Aid; straight from your wages or pension through a Payroll Giving scheme; give land, property, or shares; or donate in your will.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>There are different rules for limited companies as they pay less corporation tax when they give to charity.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>To qualify for tax relief, you must keep a record of your donations.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Read more on Self Assessment:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-gb\/blog\/get-self-assessment-right-each-time\/\">Free e-book: Get Self Assessment right each time<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-gb\/blog\/allowable-expenses-self-assessment-tax-return\/\">Tax deductions UK: Allowable expenses you can claim if you\u2019re self-employed<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-gb\/blog\/what-is-payment-on-account\/\">What is payment on account and how do I pay it?<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"penalties\"><strong>Penalties for filing late and appeals<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>You\u2019ll usually have to pay the penalty if you file after the deadline or pay late. However, you can appeal against a penalty if you have a reasonable excuse.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Expect a fine of \u00a3100 if your tax return is up to three months late or if you pay your tax bill late. You will have to pay more if it is later, and HMRC will charge interest on late payments.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Beyond three months, there is a&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/hmrc-internal-manuals\/self-assessment-manual\/sam61200\">more complex system of fines<\/a>&nbsp;based on daily penalties, late filing surcharges, and potential additional penalties for deliberate errors. HMRC also provides a&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/estimate-self-assessment-penalties\">penalty estimation tool<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Charlie Walker says if you are doing your tax return and are concerned your online access to the HMRC website won\u2019t be active in time to file before 31 January, all may not be lost\u2014an accountant or tax adviser could be able to file your return for you via their special agent logins with HMRC.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Bear in mind you will need to grant them explicit permission to do so, which can add time.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Nick Levine adds: \u201cFiling late also increases the chances of HMRC taking a closer look at your return. So, complete the form as early as possible to avoid stress and a missed deadline. If you expect to miss a tax payment deadline, contact [HMRC] immediately.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u201cYou may be able to get more time to pay or to make ad hoc or monthly payments. Keep in mind that, as 31 January approaches, the online service gets busier as do tax advisers.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"pay\"><strong>How to pay your tax<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>When filing online, once you have completed your <a href=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-gb\/sage-business-cloud\/accounting\/features\/self-assessment\/\">Self Assessment return<\/a>, HMRC will tell you how much tax you owe.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Payments on account are usually 50% of your previous year\u2019s tax bill (after accounting for tax already deducted at source). You\u2019ll normally make two instalments: one by 31 January and one by 31 July. Any remaining balance for the tax year must be paid by 31 January following the end of that tax year.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>If you\u2019re paying your tax bill by debit card, allow two working days for the transaction to clear.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>If you prefer to pay more regularly throughout the year\u2014such as weekly or monthly\u2014you can use&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/pay-self-assessment-tax-bill\/budget-payment-plan\">HMRC\u2019s budget payment plan<\/a>, but only if your previous payments are up to date and if you are paying in advance.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-buttons is-layout-flex wp-block-buttons-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-button\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link wp-element-button\" href=\"#gate-b070c479-ac3c-48cf-b77a-f696b6d06d6b\">Get the support you need with your tax returns by downloading your free copy of Get Self Assessment right each time<\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"ways\"><strong>Ways to pay<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>The ways to pay your tax are via online or telephone banking (faster payments), CHAPS, debit, or corporate credit card online, your bank or building society, BACS, direct debit (if you have set one up with HMRC before), or by cheque through the post.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>You can no longer pay at the Post Office.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/pay-self-assessment-tax-bill\/budget-payment-plan\">Pay your Self Assessment tax bill<\/a>&nbsp;has more details on each option.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>If the deadline falls on a weekend or bank holiday, make sure your payment reaches HMRC on the last working day before the deadline, unless you are paying by faster payments or by debit or credit card.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Charlie Walker says: \u201cMake sure you put something aside for your tax bill each month\u2014particularly if it\u2019s your first year of being self-employed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u201cAs a rule of thumb, we recommend setting aside a quarter of your profits for tax. If you\u2019re a higher rate taxpayer, increase that to a third.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>You might choose to create a separate saving account for the money. And, yes, you get to keep any interest.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"why\"><strong>Why business owners may use an accountant and how much they cost<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>The main reason for doing your tax return yourself is to save money on accountancy bills.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>However, many business owners are too busy to do it themselves or lack a detailed understanding of the different allowances they can claim and find that using an accountant pays for itself quickly.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Glenn Collins, head of strategic engagement and technical, at the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA), says: \u201cPeople can come unstuck if they cut corners to save money. Consulting an accountant should save money in tax savings, and in avoiding mistakes and penalties.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u201cTax rules change regularly, so using an accountant is a good way to ensure you are up to date. Plus, professionally qualified accountants have codes of conduct and ethics, continuing professional development requirements, and you will also have recourse if something goes wrong.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Glenn recommends shopping around to ensure you are paying the correct amount for an accountant. A typical fee would be between \u00a3100 and \u00a3200 an hour for a small to medium-sized practice.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Charges can also depend on where the business is situated and the complexity of the work. A smaller accountant might charge around \u00a3250 to \u00a3300 all-in for a straightforward tax return.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Sole traders and other self-employed people might be able to claim the costs for their accountant as an expense, and, appropriately, the accountant themselves will know if this is allowable.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Although strictly not allowed, by concession, it\u2019s considered OK only if the accountant \u201cwholly and exclusively\u201d calculates tax owed for the self-employed income.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>If the Self Assessment includes calculations for any other income (such as capital gains), the accountant might decide that it\u2019s not an allowable expense or that only part of their fees can be claimed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Nick Levine says an accountant can help clients understand income tax rules and be fully aware of the rules and timings. He says using an accountant to file a Self Assessment tax return can ensure all allowable expenses are correctly claimed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>As well as helping avoid errors, they can also help handle any disputes with HMRC,&#8221; says Nick.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u201cYour accountant should always keep in touch, not just at the year-end,\u201d he adds. \u201cThis will be even easier if you use&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-gb\/sage-business-cloud\/accounting\/features\/self-assessment\/\">cloud accounting software<\/a>, which will allow your accountant to keep track of how the business is performing in real time.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The <a href=\"https:\/\/www.icaew.com\/about-icaew\/find-a-chartered-accountant\">ICAEW<\/a> and <a href=\"https:\/\/www.accaglobal.com\/gb\/en\/member\/find-an-accountant.html?isocountry=GB\">ACCA<\/a> websites allow you to search for members in your area.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"helps\"><strong>How an accountant helps strategist Kerry Needs focus on her core strengths<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Kerry Needs, a writer and marketing strategist at&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.kerryneeds.com\/\">kerryneeds.com<\/a>, set up her business as a sole trader in 2015 and works remotely with clients worldwide.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>She did her tax return in the first year but then started using an accountant from the second year.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u201cI could do it myself, but I like to focus on my craft rather than things that I\u2019m not strong at,\u201d says Kerry. \u201cAnd as my business gets more complex, it\u2019s a lot easier to outsource and one less administrative task to do.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u201cMy accountant is knowledgeable. I send my books to him, and he completes my Self Assessment and submits the returns for me. He keeps on top of things, chases up information and provides me copies of everything.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u201cThe cost is reasonable at \u00a3250, and it pays for itself in saved time. Using an accountant also minimises the risk of making a mistake.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Doing her Self Assessment in the first year also means she has a good understanding of the process. To anyone doing it themselves, she recommends doing HMRC\u2019s free&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/guidance\/help-and-support-for-self-assessment\">training and webinars<\/a>&nbsp;on Self Assessment.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u201cIt\u2019s important to get to know HMRC and what they require in as much detail as possible, including allowable expenses and things like how to record mileage,\u201d she says.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u201cMake sure that you document everything, file your receipts carefully, and pay for as much as you can on your business card. You must keep copies of receipts as HMRC can ask for them.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"final\"><strong>Final thoughts on filing a tax return online<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>By now, you should be feeling a little more confident when it comes to filling in and sending your tax return online.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>If you decide to do it yourself but are still not sure of anything, you can always contact HMRC and ask them to ensure that you have the correct answer.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>This is worth doing because you could be subject to fines and penalties if you complete your tax return incorrectly.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>While many small businesses switch to using an accountant at some point, it could well be worth doing your Self Assessment for the first year at least\u2014as you will save some money and have a better understanding of how the tax system works in future.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The key to filing on time is planning. Squeezing in some Self Assessment preparation now will lead to a less stressful experience.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-buttons is-layout-flex wp-block-buttons-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-button\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link wp-element-button\" href=\"#gate-b070c479-ac3c-48cf-b77a-f696b6d06d6b\">Get the support you need with your tax returns by downloading your free copy of Get Self Assessment right each time<\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"frequently\">Frequently asked questions about Self Assessment tax returns<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">What is Self Assessment?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-gb\/sage-business-cloud\/accounting\/features\/self-assessment\/\">Self Assessment<\/a> is how the UK government asks for details of sole trader or partnership income so it can calculate the appropriate tax due. You usually either fill out a paper form or complete one online via the HMRC website.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>It also covers income from sources such as investments, savings, rental, and capital gains, and not just sole trader\/partnership income.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">When should I complete a Self Assessment tax return?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>If you have any earnings from jobs that aren\u2019t taxed at source i.e. PAYE on your main job, things such as freelancing work, being a landlord (even on a room in your house or holiday let), or a sole trader business or side hustle, that exceeds \u00a31,000 annually, you\u2019ll need to declare them to HMRC. Note that dividend and savings allowances are separate from this.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>This also includes any interest you earn on taxable assets e.g. any dividends you receive from investments or interest from savings accounts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Depending on the amount, this could also affect your tax bracket on PAYE earnings, and any benefits you may claim. So you need to make sure you provide an accurate record of your total taxable earnings to HMRC.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>For example, let&#8217;s say you work part time in a PAYE job and earn \u00a310,000 a year, but rent out a room in your house for \u00a35,000 a year. You\u2019ll need to declare your rental income on a Self Assessment form as this takes you over your personal tax-free allowance of \u00a312,570.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Another example would be if you earn \u00a335,000 a year in your PAYE job, but have money in savings that accrue interest, each month or year, and shares in a company that pay dividends into your bank account each quarter beyond the tax-free threshold, currently at \u00a32,000. You\u2019ll need to complete a Self Assessment tax return on this extra income.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">When are the key dates for Self Assessment tax returns?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Until 2027, the main dates to remember are:&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>5 April 2026 is the end of the 2025\/26 tax year, 6 April 2026 is the start of the new 2026\/27 tax year.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>31 January 2026 is the deadline to declare the previous tax year\u2019s earnings. It\u2019s also the deadline for the first\u202f<a href=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-gb\/blog\/what-is-payment-on-account\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">payment on account<\/a>\u202fif you earn above a certain threshold.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>31 July 2026 is when you may have to pay the second instalment of the payment on account.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>31 October 2026 is the deadline for posting a paper-based SA100 tax return for the 2025\/26 tax year. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><em>Editor&#8217;s note: This article was originally published in December 2018 and has been updated for relevance.<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n<div class=\"single-cta gated-content\">\n\t<div class=\"single-cta__positioner\">\n\t\t<div class=\"single-cta__wrapper has-dark-background-color\">\n\t\t\t<div class=\"single-cta__content\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<h2 class=\"single-cta__title h3\">E-Book: Get Self Assessment right<\/h2>\n\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"single-cta__description\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<p><!-- wp:paragraph --><\/p>\n<p class=\"\">Download your free copy of this essential guide and get the support you need with your Self Assessment tax returns.<\/p>\n<p><!-- \/wp:paragraph --><\/p>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<a\n\t\t\t\t\t\thref=\"#gate-b070c479-ac3c-48cf-b77a-f696b6d06d6b\"\n\t\t\t\t\t\tclass=\"single-cta__button button button--primary\"\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t>Download your free guide<\/a>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"single-cta__downloads\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t1,200 readers have downloaded this guide\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\n\t\t\t\t\t<img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1440\" height=\"810\" src=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-gb\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/10\/2022\/04\/GettyImages-1146164056-1440x810.jpg\" class=\"single-cta__image\" alt=\"Woman applying for business credit line\" loading=\"lazy\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-gb\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/10\/2022\/04\/GettyImages-1146164056-1440x810.jpg 1440w\" sizes=\"auto, (min-width: 48em) 33vw, 100vw\" \/>\t\t\t<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<div class=\"single-cta\">\n\t<div class=\"single-cta__positioner\">\n\t\t<div class=\"single-cta__wrapper has-dark-background-color\">\n\t\t\t<div class=\"single-cta__content\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<h2 class=\"single-cta__title h3\">Subscribe to the Sage Advice newsletter<\/h2>\n\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"single-cta__description\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<p>Join more than 500,000 UK readers and get the best business admin strategies and tactics, as well as actionable advice to help your company thrive, in your inbox every month.<\/p>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<a\n\t\t\t\t\t\thref=\"#gate-b1a63862-3fa0-4a5e-bb67-c76b88bbc6b8\"\n\t\t\t\t\t\tclass=\"single-cta__button button button--primary\"\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t>Subscribe now<\/a>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\n\t\t\t\t\t<img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1440\" height=\"810\" src=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-gb\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/10\/2022\/04\/GettyImages-1073797282-1-1440x810.jpg\" class=\"single-cta__image\" alt=\"\" loading=\"lazy\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-gb\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/10\/2022\/04\/GettyImages-1073797282-1-1440x810.jpg 1440w\" sizes=\"auto, (min-width: 48em) 33vw, 100vw\" \/>\t\t\t<\/div>\n<\/div>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Good preparation can help you file a tax return online. Read this for tips on filing a Self Assessment tax return, key dates and expenses.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":699,"featured_media":3356,"menu_order":0,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_sage_video":false,"post_featured_image_hide":false,"sage_hide_published_date":false,"sage_hide_read_time":false,"sage_hide_share_buttons":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[6],"tags":[206,27],"business_type":[4],"lilypad":[],"context":[],"industry":[],"persona":[73,74,75],"imagine_tag":[170,109],"coauthors":[352],"class_list":["post-5695","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-money-matters","tag-need-to-know","tag-tax","business_type-small-business"],"sage_meta":{"region":"en-gb","author_name":"Tim Cooper","featured_image":"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-gb\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/10\/2017\/12\/GettyImages-534055580_super.jpg","imagine_tags":{"170":"Self Assessment","109":"Small business"}},"distributor_meta":false,"distributor_terms":false,"distributor_media":false,"distributor_original_site_name":"Sage Advice UK","distributor_original_site_url":"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-gb\/blog","push-errors":false,"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-gb\/blog\/api\/wp\/v2\/posts\/5695","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-gb\/blog\/api\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-gb\/blog\/api\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-gb\/blog\/api\/wp\/v2\/users\/699"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-gb\/blog\/api\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=5695"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-gb\/blog\/api\/wp\/v2\/posts\/5695\/revisions"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-gb\/blog\/api\/wp\/v2\/media\/3356"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-gb\/blog\/api\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=5695"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-gb\/blog\/api\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=5695"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-gb\/blog\/api\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=5695"},{"taxonomy":"business_type","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-gb\/blog\/api\/wp\/v2\/business_type?post=5695"},{"taxonomy":"lilypad","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-gb\/blog\/api\/wp\/v2\/lilypad?post=5695"},{"taxonomy":"context","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-gb\/blog\/api\/wp\/v2\/context?post=5695"},{"taxonomy":"industry","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-gb\/blog\/api\/wp\/v2\/industry?post=5695"},{"taxonomy":"persona","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-gb\/blog\/api\/wp\/v2\/persona?post=5695"},{"taxonomy":"imagine_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-gb\/blog\/api\/wp\/v2\/imagine_tag?post=5695"},{"taxonomy":"author","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-gb\/blog\/api\/wp\/v2\/coauthors?post=5695"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}