Understanding Self Assessment and your tax return

You will need to register for Self Assessment with HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC) if you have to send a tax return but didn't send one the previous year.

Self Assessment registration process time

You should note that it can take up to 20 working days to complete the registration process. You should take this into consideration to give yourself plenty of time to complete your Self Assessment return ahead of the 31 January deadline.

Watch this short HMRC video explaining how to register your new business online with HMRC so that you can complete a Self Assessment return.

HMRC also provide video guidance on how to register for Self Assessment if you are not self-employed.