Missed tax deadlines mean automatic penalties and interest — an easy, avoidable way to lose money. Here are the key UK dates every business owner should have in the diary.
Self assessment (sole traders & directors)
- 5 October — deadline to register for self assessment if you're newly self-employed.
- 31 January — online tax return filing deadline and the date any tax owed must be paid.
- 31 July — second 'payment on account' due, if applicable.
VAT
If you're VAT registered, returns and payments are usually due one month and seven days after each quarter ends. Under Making Tax Digital, these must be filed with compatible software — see our MTD guide.
Corporation tax (limited companies)
- 9 months and 1 day after your year-end — corporation tax payment is due.
- 12 months after your year-end — company tax return (CT600) must be filed.
- Confirmation statement — filed with Companies House annually.
Payroll (if you have staff)
PAYE and National Insurance are typically due by the 22nd of each month (or 19th if paying by post), with Real Time Information submitted to HMRC on or before each payday.
The easy way to never miss one
Keeping all this straight is exactly what we take off your plate — we chase the deadlines so you don't have to. If dates keep sneaking up on you, let's have a chat.
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