Scared of the UK 2025 tax deadlines? Here is how to stay ahead and avoid the pinchy penalties!
The 2024-2025 financial year is coming to a close, and it’s your last chance to get your tax affairs in order! HMRC tax deadlines don’t wait around for anyone, and missing them can result in hefty penalties that impact both individuals and businesses.
Instead of wasting money on penalties, you could reinvest those hard-earned funds into your business, your pension, or even your next holiday.
Staying on top of these tax dates is crucial, whether you’re a self-employed individual, a small business owner, or a larger corporation. If handling finances feels overwhelming, consider contacting a tax professional, (like us!), who can ensure your filings are submitted correctly and on time.
To help you navigate the upcoming financial year 2025/26, here are the 13 key tax deadlines you need to know.
March 2025 – The Final Stretch of the Tax Year
2nd March 2025 – Self Assessment Late Payment Deadline
By this date, any unpaid Self Assessment tax for the 2023-2024 tax year will incur additional late penalties. If you missed the 31st January deadline, this is your last chance to settle your tax bill before HMRC applies a 5% surcharge on outstanding amounts. Penalties can reach up to £1,500 — don’t let this be an expensive mistake!
Top Tax Tip: Set a reminder and pay early to avoid unnecessary fines!
Another Top Tax Tip: Keep on top of your emails from your accountant – they’ll make sure you don’t miss due payments!
19th March 2025 – PAYE & NIC Payment Deadline
Employers must submit PAYE and NIC for the period ending 5th March 2025.
Top Tip: If you’re paying electronically, ensure payments clear by this date and that you received confirmation of the payment from your bank or HMRC.
31st March 2025 – Financial Year-End for Many Businesses
For many businesses, 31st March marks the end of the financial year 2024/25. This means:
- Closing accounts for tax reporting,
- Ensuring all invoices and expenses are logged,
- Preparing for Corporation Tax filing.
Failing to prepare now can lead to unnecessary stress when the Corporation Tax deadline UK rolls around.
April 2025 – The New Financial Year Begins
5th April 2025 – End of the 2024/25 Tax Year
This is the final day to make use of any and all tax allowances and reliefs for the financial year, such as:
- ISA contributions,
- Pension contributions,
- Capital allowances.
6th April 2025 – Start of the 2025/26 Tax Year
New tax regulations, thresholds, and rates will take effect from this date. Businesses and individuals must review updates from HMRC to ensure they remain compliant.
19th April 2025 – PAYE & CIS Tax Payment Due
Employers must submit PAYE & National Insurance Contributions for the period ending 5th April. If your business is part of the Construction Industry Scheme (CIS), ensure all tax returns are filed on time.
May 2025 – Key Tax Reporting Responsibilities
7th May 2025 – VAT Return & Payment Deadline
If your business is VAT registered, the VAT return deadlines require you to submit your return and payment for the quarter ending 31st March 2025.
All VAT-registered businesses must submit VAT returns digitally via MTD-compatible software. By 2026, most businesses will be required to use fully digital tax systems.
31st May 2025 – P60s Must Be Issued to Employees
Employers must provide P60 forms summarizing employees’ total earnings and deductions for 2024/25. Late issuance can result in penalties from HMRC.
July 2025 – Crucial Self-Employed & Payroll Deadlines
6th July 2025 – P11D & P11D(b) Filing Deadline
Businesses must report expenses and benefits provided to employees via P11D forms. These must be submitted to HMRC by 6th July to avoid penalties.
31st July 2025 – Second Self Assessment Payment on Account Due
If you pay tax via Self Assessment, this is the deadline for your second payment on account for 2024/25. Missing it could result in interest charges on overdue amounts.
October 2025 – Imperative Self Assessment Dates
5th October 2025 – Self Assessment registration
This date only applies for new self-employed individuals and company directors.
31st October 2025 –Paper Self Assessment
Most businesses file electronically now, but if you’re submitting a paper return, this is your deadline. HMRC is actively digitalizing tax services, so electronic filing is strongly encouraged.
January 2026 – The Winter Tax Rush!
31st January 2026 – Online Self Assessment
Winter is when accountants go into full tax-season mode, ensuring every Self Assessment deadline is met before the first payment on account for 2025/26. If you miss this deadline, expected penalties with big interest.
Other important deadlines you should be aware of
VAT Deadlines – Quarterly or Monthly
Usually, VATs are filed and completed quarterly as HMRC separates them like that by design. From an accountant’s perspective, every month will have a VAT deadline as different businesses and individuals will have different deadlines. Makes it more manageable for everyone.
How to Avoid Penalties and Stay Compliant
Failing to meet HMRC tax deadlines can lead to serious consequences, including:
- Late filing penalties (starting at £100),
- Interest on unpaid tax,
- Surcharges on outstanding amounts.
To stay on top of these deadlines:
- Automate payments where possible,
- Set calendar reminders for key dates,
- Work with an accountant to ensure compliance.
If you’re feeling overwhelmed, we’re here to help! Our team of expert accountants ensures your filings are submitted on time, avoiding penalties and maximizing savings. Get in touch today!
