Will HMRC Tell Me If I Need to Do a Tax Return?📩| Accountants In Essex

If you’ve ever asked yourself, “Do I need to do a tax return?” or “Will HMRC tell me if I have to file one?” — you’re not alone! This is one of the most common tax return questions I get from clients across the UK.

And while HMRC can tell you, they often don’t — which means you need to know the signs yourself. Keep reading to find out if you need to file, what happens if you don’t, and how accountants in Essex (like me 👋) can help you get it right.

Will HMRC Notify Me If I Need to File a Tax Return? | Accountants In Essex

In short — not always.

HMRC might send you a letter or email inviting you to complete a Self Assessment tax return, but if you’ve earned extra income, changed jobs, or become self-employed, it’s your responsibility to check whether you need to register.

So no, HMRC won’t always tell you. But that doesn’t mean you won’t be expected to file—and face penalties if you don’t. 👀

You’ll Usually Need to File a Tax Return If:

✅ You’re self-employed or a sole trader (even if you earn under £12,570)

✅ You’re a director of a limited company

✅ You have rental income, dividends, or investments

✅ You earn more than £100,000 through PAYE

✅ You need to claim tax relief (e.g. mileage, working from home, or professional expenses)

✅ You had untaxed income like tips, freelance work, crypto, or eBay sales

✅ You’re submitting a tax return with P60 to claim refunds or deductions

✅ You’re handling a tax return for a deceased person UK

What If I Don’t File and I Should Have?

HMRC can issue late filing penalties, even if you didn’t know you needed to file. These start at £100 and increase the longer you leave it. You may also face interest charges on unpaid tax.

That’s why it’s so important to do a tax return check, speak to an accountant, or contact HMRC directly if you’re unsure.

How Do I Know for Sure?

Here’s how to find out:

🔎 Use HMRC’s tax return checker tool online

📞 Call HMRC directly (though expect a wait!)

📩 Check your post or email for Self Assessment notices

👨‍💼 Speak to trusted accountants in Essex who can review your situation and tell you exactly what you need to do

What Are the Deadlines for Tax Return UK?

🗓️ 6 April – New tax year begins

🗓️ 5 October – Deadline to register for Self Assessment (if it's your first time)

🗓️ 31 October – Paper tax return deadline

🗓️ 31 January – Online tax return deadline + payment due

Want to file early? You can submit from 6 April onwards and avoid the January rush.

Not Sure What to Claim?

If you're thinking: "Tax return – what can I claim?", here are a few examples:

💻 Working from home

🚗 Mileage for business use

📱 Phone and internet costs

📚 Business courses or coaching

🧾 Equipment and materials

Final Thoughts

HMRC won’t always tell you if you need to do a tax return. But that doesn’t mean you’re off the hook. Knowing your tax status and acting early can save you stress, money, and penalties.

📩 Need help? Get in touch with me today—I'm a friendly, reliable accountant in Essex who can take the hassle out of your Self Assessment tax return.

💬 Have you ever found out after the deadline that you were meant to file? Let me know in the comments!

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