UK Tax Deadlines 2026: Key Dates for Businesses and Individuals
Staying on top of your tax deadlines is essential for compliance, avoiding penalties, and managing cash flow effectively. Whether you’re a sole trader, run a limited company, or employ staff, there are key HMRC and Companies House dates to plan for throughout 2026.
At Achieving Clarity, we help businesses stay ahead of their obligations so they can focus on growth. Below is your essential guide to the most important tax and financial deadlines for 2026.
Self Assessment Deadlines
31 January 2027
- Online Self Assessment tax return deadline for the 2025/26 tax year.
- Payment deadline for any tax owed for 2025/26, including the first payment on account for 2026/27.
31 July 2027
- Second payment on account for the 2026/27 tax year (if applicable).
5 October 2026
- Last date to register for Self Assessment if self-employed or reporting additional untaxed income for 2025/26.
Corporation Tax and Limited Company Deadlines
- Corporation Tax is due 9 months and 1 day after your accounting period ends.
- Example: For a 31 March 2026 year-end, payment is due by 1 January 2027.
- Company Tax Return (CT600) must be filed within 12 months of your accounting period end.
- Annual Accounts: Submit to Companies House 9 months after year-end (31 December 2026 for a 31 March 2026 year-end).
- Confirmation Statement: File at least once every 12 months, usually on your company’s incorporation anniversary or last statement date.
VAT Deadlines
- VAT filing and payment deadlines depend on your return period (usually quarterly).
- Each VAT period is due 1 month + 7 days after the end of that period.
- Making Tax Digital (MTD) rules still apply: all VAT returns must be submitted using compatible software.
PAYE and Payroll Deadlines
- RTI (Real Time Information): Submit on or before your employees’ payday.
- Monthly PAYE Payments: Due by the 22nd of the following month (electronic) or 19th (by post).
- Quarterly PAYE Payments: For businesses with an average monthly PAYE bill under £1,500, due by the 22nd of the month following the quarter.
- P60s: Issue to employees by 31 May 2026.
- P11D / P11D(b): Submit by 6 July 2026.
- Class 1A National Insurance: Payment due by 22 July (or 19 July if by cheque).
Key Deadlines at a Glance (2026)
| Date | Obligation |
|---|---|
| 31 Jan 2027 | Self Assessment filing & payment (2025/26) |
| 31 Mar 2027 | End of 2026/27 company tax year (March year-end) |
| 5 Apr 2027 | End of 2026/27 personal tax year |
| 31 May 2027 | P60s issued to employees |
| 6 Jul 2027 | P11D & P11D(b) submission |
| 22 Jul 2027 | Class 1A NIC payment |
| 31 Jul 2027 | Second Self Assessment payment on account (2026/27) |
| 5 Oct 2027 | Register for Self Assessment (2026/27) |
| Variable | VAT returns (quarterly) |
| Variable | PAYE submissions & payments |
| Variable | Corporation tax payment (9 months +1 day after year-end) |
| Variable | Company accounts due (9 months after year-end) |
| Variable | Confirmation Statement (annual filing date) |
Planning Ahead to Avoid Penalties
Missing tax deadlines can result in interest charges, penalties, and unnecessary stress. By planning ahead, keeping accurate records, and working with a proactive accountant, you can stay compliant and avoid surprises.
At Achieving Clarity, we help our clients meet deadlines with confidence. Unsure which dates apply to your business or need support managing your obligations? Get in touch, we provide clarity, not just compliance.
Disclaimer
This guide is intended as general information and does not constitute business or financial advice. For advice tailored to your circumstances, please consult a qualified accountancy professional. Every business is unique, and tailored guidance ensures full compliance. If you’re seeking clear, practical support, our team at Achieving Clarity specialises in helping businesses navigate complex financial decisions with confidence.
