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Self Assessment deadlines, in plain English.

The dates sole traders need to know, and what happens if you miss them.

The main dates

  • 5 October: register for Self Assessment if you started self-employment in the previous tax year
  • 31 October: deadline for a paper return
  • 31 January: deadline for an online return, and to pay the tax you owe
  • 31 July: second payment on account, if you make payments on account

Missing a deadline

HMRC charges an automatic penalty for a late return, and interest on tax paid late. Filing early gives you time to plan for the bill.

We keep track for you

With our fixed-price package we prepare and file your return ahead of the deadline and explain the tax bill in plain English.

Questions

When is the Self Assessment deadline?

31 January for an online return and for paying the tax owed. The deadline for a paper return is 31 October.

What happens if I file late?

HMRC charges an automatic penalty for a late return, plus interest on any tax paid late.

Sources

Checked against GOV.UK on 11 October 2026. This is general information, not personal advice. Rates and rules change, so we confirm them for your own situation.