What is a self-assessment tax return?

There are two types of tax returns to deal with if you run your own limited company: a company tax return and a self-assessment tax return.

Your self-assessment tax return is separate from a company tax return. It is for reporting your personal earnings, including salary and dividends. You are personally responsible for completing and filing your personal tax return to HMRC. This is a separate task from filing a company tax return.

The tax year runs from 6 April to 5 April the following year. The deadline to submit your self-assessment is 31 January. For example, the 2024/25 tax year runs from 6 April 2024 to 5 April 2025. The deadline to submit your self-assessment tax return for the 2024/25 tax year is 31 January 2026.

Do I need to complete a personal tax return?

A personal tax return, commonly referred to as a self-assessment, must be completed if:

  • Your income from self-employment was over £1,000
  • You earned personal income as a shareholder through the distribution of dividends
  • You are a director of your own limited company
  • You need to pay Capital Gains Tax
  • You have income from savings or investments of at least £10,000 before tax
  • You received over £2,500 in income from renting out a property
  • Your taxable income was over £100,000 (excluding personal allowance)
  • You have earned income from abroad that is taxable in the UK

If you use an umbrella company (like Churchill Knight Umbrella) for your payroll, you may still be required to submit a self-assessment tax return if any of the above apply to your circumstances.

Contact Churchill Knight to get help with your tax return

We’re experts at completing self-assessment tax returns. Whether you’re a landlord, a high-earner or a director of your own limited company – we can help.

Our self-assessment tax return team will complete your personal tax return and submit it to HMRC following your approval. You’ll also receive unlimited support from our experts if you have any queries or concerns.

To get a quote, please send us a message here or call 01707 871622.

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