HMRC debunks top five self assessment ‘myths’

  • Post last modified:10/07/2025

29 Aug 2024

HMRC has clarified some common myths about self assessment tax returns.

HMRC stated that there are ‘plenty of myths’ about who must file a self assessment return before the 31 January 2025 deadline. These include:

HMRC said it has a wide range of resources to assist taxpayers with self assessment, including information on registering for self assessment and receiving their Unique Taxpayer Reference, which is needed when completing a tax return and paying any tax that may be due.

Myrtle Lloyd, Director General for Customer Services at HMRC, said: ‘We want to make sure you are clear about your tax responsibilities. These myth busters and our range of resources on GOV.UK can help if you are unsure if Self Assessment applies to you or think you no longer need to file a tax return. Just search ‘self assessment’ on GOV.UK to find out more.’