Is a P60 a Tax Return? Everything You Need to Know in the UK 📝| Accountants In Essex
- Kyle Randall

- Jul 31, 2025
- 2 min read
One of the most common questions we hear as accountants in Essex is — “Is a P60 a tax return?”
The short answer is no — a P60 is not the same thing as a Self Assessment tax return. But they are both important documents when it comes to your tax in the UK.
What is a P60? 📄| Accountants In Essex
A P60 is an end-of-year tax document you receive from your employer. It shows:
Your total earnings from your job in the tax year.
The total amount of Income Tax and National Insurance deducted.
Your tax code for the year.
Any statutory deductions.
You’ll get your P60 after the end of the tax year — usually by 31 May. It’s important for checking your tax return status, applying for a tax refund, or proving your income for things like mortgage applications.
What is a Tax Return? 🧾
A Self Assessment tax return is how you declare your total income to HMRC. It includes not just your salary from employment, but also:
Self-employed income 💼
Rental income 🏠
Dividends & investments 📈
Foreign income 🌍
Any other taxable income
If you’re self-employed, earn untaxed income, or meet certain HMRC criteria, you must submit a tax return online or by paper before the tax return deadline.
P60 vs Tax Return – The Difference ✔️
P60 = Proof of earnings from an employer in one tax year.
Tax return = Declaration of all your income to HMRC to calculate your final tax bill.
You might use your P60 when completing your tax return, especially if you’re claiming expenses, checking your tax return estimate, or if HMRC asks for evidence.
When You Might Need Both 🏦
You may need both your P60 and Self Assessment tax return for:
Mortgage or loan applications
Claiming tax return refunds
Checking your tax return payment amount
Avoiding tax return late filing penalties
Need Help With Your Tax Return in the UK? 🇬🇧
Whether you’re wondering “Do I need to file a tax return with a P60?” or you just want expert advice on tax return dates, what you can claim, or how to check your tax return, our team of professional accountants in Essex can help.
We work with self-employed individuals, limited companies, and even handle tax returns for deceased persons UK. From tax return accountant fees UK advice to HMRC tax return help, we’ve got you covered.
💬 Have you used your P60 when filing your tax return before? Drop a comment below and share your experience!

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