During the financial year 6 April 2025 to 5 April 2026, perhaps you took up a self-employed associate position, started providing services on a self-employed basis, or began undertaking private work outside an employed role.
If you became self-employed in the previous financial year and earned over £1000 through self-employment, you must inform HMRC before the 5 October deadline that you need to complete a Self Assessment tax return. You still have until 31 January 2027 to actually submit the return.
It is important not to assume that paying tax through Pay As You Earn (PAYE) means no further action is required. You should check your position even if the self-employed work formed just one part of your overall income.
Dentists who have completed Self Assessment tax returns in previous years do not need to register again, they just need to ensure their tax returns are submitted by the January deadline.
Check if you need to send a Self Assessment tax return.
There are several other reasons why dentists may need to complete tax returns. These include if you claim job expenses over £2500 or if you claim child benefit with income over £60,000.
Taking a few minutes to review your position now could help you avoid unnecessary stress, as well as potential penalties, in the future.