Your Self Assessment Survival Guide: 12 common mistakes to avoid in 2025

Completing your own Self Assessment tax return is absolutely doable but, without the help of an accountant, it’s easy to fall into traps that could cost you time, money or even trigger unwanted attention from HMRC.

Whether you’re a freelancer, landlord, side hustler or someone with additional income or gains outside of PAYE, here are 12 of the most common mistakes people make when filing their Self Assessment tax return and how you can avoid them in 2025.

The 10 essentials to complete your Self-Assessment tax return for 2024/25

ESSENTIAL INFORMATION YOU’LL NEED TO COMPLETE YOUR SELF ASSESSMENT TAX RETURN

Completing a Self Assessment tax return is much easier when you have all the right information to hand before you start. Whether you’re employed, self-employed, a landlord, investor or someone with multiple income sources, gathering your documentation early can help you avoid mistakes, reduce last-minute stress and ensure you don’t miss anything important.

July payments panic: how to help clients and avoid complaints

Has a client ever complained that you didn’t remind them about their July payment to HMRC?

While most clients are well aware of the January Self Assessment deadline, the second payment on account due by 31st July can sometimes slip under the radar - especially with summer holidays, school breaks, and general distractions. The result? Missed payments, HMRC fines, and interest charges.

10 essential items of information you need for Self Assessment (and where to find them)

Filing a Self Assessment tax return can seem daunting, so it makes sense to gather all the necessary information before you start. In our latest blog, we list the most common items you’ll need and provide advice on where to find them.

The benefits of submitting your Self Assessment tax return early

Filing your self-assessment tax return might not be the most exciting task on your to-do list, but submitting it early comes with several significant advantages. Whether you're self-employed, a landlord, or have other income that requires a self-assessment, getting it done well before the January 31st deadline can save you time, money, and stress. Here are the key benefits of filing your tax return early.

Debunking common myths surrounding Self Assessment tax returns

Filing a self-assessment tax return is a task that many dread, often because of the myths and misconceptions surrounding the process. These myths can lead to unnecessary stress, missed deadlines, and even financial penalties. To help clear up some of the confusion, let’s debunk some of the most common myths about self-assessment tax returns.

10 key expenses to claim for on your tax return

Filing a Self Assessment tax return as a self-employed individual can be a complex process, but it's also an opportunity to reduce your tax liability by claiming allowable expenses. However, many self-employed people miss out on deductions they’re entitled to because they overlook certain expenses. 

To ensure you’re maximising your tax savings, here are the key expenses you should not overlook when completing your Self Assessment tax return.

Understanding basis period reform and the transitional year rules as a self-employed individual

If you’re self-employed, you might have heard about something called “basis period reform” and the “transitional year” rules. These terms can sound confusing, especially if you’re not familiar with accounting or tax practices. This article will break down what these changes mean and how they could affect you.