Learn how to file your UK taxes without an accountant in 2025. Step-by-step, stress-free guide for freelancers, students & self-employed.
Filing your own taxes might sound intimidating, but it’s becoming more common for freelancers, small business owners, and side hustlers across the UK. If you’ve ever wondered how to file taxes in the UK without an accountant, this complete guide is for you. Whether you’re self-employed, a contractor, or earning from multiple sources, this post breaks it down step-by-step.
1. Who Needs to File Taxes in the UK?
In the UK, you must file a Self Assessment tax return if:
- You’re self-employed or run a business
- You earned over £1,000 from side gigs
- You receive rental income
- You’re a company director
- You have untaxed income (e.g., dividends or crypto)
If HMRC sends you a letter or email asking you to file, you must submit your return, even if you owe no tax.
2. How to Register with HMRC
Before you file, register for Self Assessment:
how to file taxes in the UK without an accountant
- Visit: file UK self assessment taxes online
- Choose “Register if you’re self-employed”
- HMRC will send you a Unique Taxpayer Reference (UTR) and activation code
- Create a Government Gateway account
Make sure to register by October 5th after the end of the tax year in which you earned income.
3. How to File Taxes in the UK Without an Accountant – Step-by-Step
Here’s how to file your return on your own:
how to file taxes in the UK without an accountant
Step 1: Gather your financial documents:
- Income (invoices, payslips, etc.)
- Expenses (receipts, mileage logs, bills)
- Bank interest, dividends, crypto or rental income
Step 2: Log in to your Government Gateway self assessment tax return UK 2025
Step 3: Complete the online form:
- Enter your income and expense figures
- Declare any untaxed income
- Claim tax-free allowances or deductions
Step 4: Submit your return and view your tax bill
Step 5: Pay your tax bill by 31st January of the following year.
how to file taxes in the UK without an accountant
4. Tools to Help You File Without an Accountant
Even without hiring an expert, these tools make tax filing easy:
- HMRC’s Self Assessment portal
- GoSimpleTax – calculates taxes automatically
- TaxScouts – helps review your return (optional)
- You can register for Self Assessment directly on the HMRC official site.
These platforms can guide you through each form step-by-step and help minimize mistakes.
5. Benefits of Filing Without an Accountant
- 💷 Save Money – No accounting fees (typically £150–£500+)
- ⏱️ Control – Understand your own financial data
- 📈 Learn Tax Basics – Useful for future planning and budgeting
- Also read: 5 Best Budgeting Apps in the UK for 2025
With the right preparation, you’ll gain confidence in handling your own tax return.
6. Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Missing the 31 January deadline
- Forgetting to declare side income or crypto gains
- Not claiming allowable expenses (travel, software, home office)
Double-check your entries before submission. HMRC fines can be costly!
❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Do I need to file a tax return if I earn under £12,570?
If all your income is taxed through PAYE and under the threshold, you usually don’t need to file — but side income may require it.
Is filing a UK tax return online safe?
Yes. Use official gov.uk portals and enable two-factor authentication for security.
Can I file UK taxes from abroad?
Absolutely. As long as you have your Government Gateway login, you can file from anywhere online.
What happens if I file late?
You’ll be fined £100 if you miss the deadline, plus additional penalties for longer delays.
📌 Final Thoughts Expert
Filing taxes how to file taxes in the UK without an accountant in the UK without an accountant isn’t just possible — it’s smart if you’re willing to follow a structured process. By learning how to handle your Self Assessment, you take control of your finances, save money, and gain peace of mind.
The best part? You don’t need fancy software or a finance degree — just the right guide (like this one) and a bit of organization
Effortless Guide: How to File Taxes in the UK Without an Accountant (2025)
Conclusion
Learning how to file taxes in the UK without an accountant doesn’t have to be overwhelming. With this step-by-step guide, you can take full control of your finances, meet deadlines, and even save hundreds of pounds annually. Take charge today and experience the freedom of DIY tax filing.