We’re just days away from the end of the 2024/25 financial year. That means it’s time to get our taxes in order, ready for 2025/26. While it might sound daunting, there’s no need to worry, we’re here to make sense of it all.
Understanding the key tax dates isn’t just about meeting deadlines; it’s about smart planning, staying ahead of the game, and making sure you’re making the most of your finances. At Ryans, we’re here to help you through this.
Our team of approachable experts knows the ins and outs of the UK tax system like the back of their hand, and we’re all about breaking it down into bite-sized, manageable pieces.
In this guide, we’re diving into the must-know dates for the 2025/26 tax year. We’ll walk you through each crucial deadline, explain what it means for you, and share some tips on how to tackle each one without breaking a sweat.
So, whether you’re an experienced business owner or just starting to figure out the self-employed world, stay with us. We’re here to make sure that when it comes to tax, you’re clear on what to do and when to do it.
UK Tax Calendar 2025/26 Overview
April 2025
- 6 April 2025 – Start of the 2025/26 tax year; new tax codes and payroll updates take effect.
- 19 April 2025 – Final full payment submission (FPS) for the 2024/25 tax year due.
- 30 April 2025 – Penalties begin for unfiled 2024/25 self-assessment tax returns.
May 2025
- 31 May 2025 – Employers must issue P60 forms to all employees.
July 2025
- 6 July 2025 – Deadline for submitting P11D forms (reporting employee benefits & expenses).
- 19 July 2025 – Deadline for paying Class 1A National Insurance Contributions (NICs) by post.
- 22 July 2025 – Deadline for paying Class 1A NICs online.
- 31 July 2025 – Second self-assessment tax payment on account due for 2024/25 tax year.
September 2025
- Mid-September 2025 – Office for National Statistics (ONS) announces UK wage growth figures (affects state pension increases).
October 2025
- 5 October 2025 – Deadline for registering for self-assessment if filing for the first time.
- Mid-October 2025 – Inflation rate for September 2025 announced, influencing state pensions and benefits for 2026/27.
- 31 October 2025 – Deadline for submitting paper self-assessment tax returns.
December 2025
- 30 December 2025 – Deadline to file self-assessment tax return if you want tax owed to be collected via PAYE (through wages or pension).
January 2026
- 31 January 2026 – Major self-assessment deadline:
- Online tax returns for 2024/25 must be submitted.
- Any tax owed for 2024/25 must be paid.
- First payment on account for 2025/26 tax year is due.
March 2026
- 26 March 2026 – Spring Budget forecast from the Chancellor, outlining potential tax changes.
April 2026
- 5 April 2026 – End of the 2025/26 tax year.
- 6 April 2026 – Start of the 2026/27 tax year, with further tax updates taking effect.
UK Tax Year 2025/26: Key Dates & Deadlines
When Does the 2025/26 Tax Year Start and End?
The UK tax year for 2025/26 officially begins on 6 April 2025 and runs until 5 April 2026. This period marks the timeframe for earnings, expenses, and tax liabilities that need to be reported to HMRC.
For businesses and individuals, this annual cycle is crucial for tax planning, financial reporting, and ensuring compliance with HMRC regulations.
The tax year’s structure dictates when you must submit tax returns, pay outstanding liabilities, and take advantage of available tax allowances.
As this deadline approaches, it is an excellent time to review your finances and consider tax-efficient strategies, such as making pension contributions, maximising ISA allowances, or preparing for capital gains tax obligations.
Proper planning before the end of the tax year can help reduce tax liabilities and ensure you meet your obligations without last-minute pressure.
Self-Assessment Tax Return Deadlines
For those who are self-employed, receive additional income, or fall under HMRC’s self-assessment system, understanding the key deadlines is essential to avoid late fees and ensure a smooth tax return process.
The most important deadline for self-assessment taxpayers is 31 January 2026, which is the final date to submit online tax returns for the 2024/25 tax year and pay any outstanding tax liabilities.
Missing this deadline can result in an automatic penalty, which increases over time if the return remains unfiled or the tax remains unpaid.
If you are new to self-assessment, you must register with HMRC by 5 October 2025 to ensure you are set up correctly and receive the necessary details to file your return. Failing to register on time can lead to unexpected tax demands and delays in processing returns.
Those who prefer to file a paper return must submit their self-assessment by 31 October 2025. This option is less common due to the convenience of online filing, but it remains available for those who require it.
For taxpayers who wish to have their tax collected via their PAYE tax code—such as employees or pensioners with additional taxable income—filing before 30 December 2025 allows HMRC to adjust tax deductions through payroll rather than requiring a lump-sum payment.
Keeping track of these deadlines ensures that you avoid unnecessary penalties and gives you ample time to gather documents, claim any eligible tax reliefs, and accurately calculate what you owe.
If you need help with your self-assessment, Ryans offers a dedicated tax return service to streamline the process and ensure compliance with HMRC regulations.
Key Financial & Tax Changes for the 2025/26 Tax Year
As the new tax year begins, several financial and tax changes will come into effect, impacting individuals, businesses, and employers alike.
Understanding these updates is essential for accurate payroll management, tax planning, and ensuring compliance with HMRC regulations.
The 2025/26 tax year introduces significant adjustments to National Insurance, Capital Gains Tax, VAT deadlines, and business rates, among other areas.
Income Tax, National Insurance & Payroll Updates
For employers and employees, one of the most notable changes in 2025/26 is the increase in Employers’ National Insurance Contributions (NICs), which will rise from 13.8% to 15%.
This change means businesses will pay more in NICs for each employee earning above the threshold, increasing payroll costs across various sectors.
Alongside this, a new secondary threshold has been introduced, set at £5,000 per year, which will impact the way contributions are calculated for lower-earning employees.
Statutory payments are also increasing in line with inflation. Statutory family-related leave, such as maternity and paternity pay, will rise to £187.18 per week, providing slightly higher financial support for eligible employees.
Similarly, statutory sick pay is increasing from £116.75 to £118.75 per week, which employers must factor into their payroll calculations.
Company car tax is another area seeing an adjustment, with a 1% increase across all users, making it slightly more expensive for businesses and employees with company-provided vehicles.
These changes will require careful payroll planning to ensure compliance and budget adjustments for businesses that offer company cars as part of their employee benefits.
Capital Gains Tax (CGT) & Business Asset Disposal Relief
Changes to Capital Gains Tax (CGT) are set to impact business owners and investors, particularly those planning to sell assets.
The CGT rate for Business Asset Disposal Relief (previously Entrepreneurs’ Relief) will increase from 10% to 14%, raising the tax burden on eligible business sales.
Additionally, a further increase has already been confirmed for the following tax year, with rates set to rise again to 18% from 6 April 2026.
For investors, carried interest – the share of profits from investment funds paid to fund managers – will now be taxed at 32%, a significant increase that could alter investment strategies and fund structures.
These changes mean business owners and investors may need to reconsider the timing of asset disposals to mitigate tax liabilities.
VAT & Corporation Tax Deadlines
Businesses must stay aware of key tax deadlines throughout the year to avoid penalties and ensure smooth financial operations.
For VAT-registered businesses, VAT returns and payments must be submitted no later than one month and seven days after the end of each VAT accounting period.
Late submissions can result in financial penalties, making it essential to keep digital records up to date and use Making Tax Digital (MTD)-compliant software for streamlined reporting.
Corporation tax deadlines remain unchanged, with payments due nine months and one day after the company’s accounting period ends.
Companies must also ensure they meet their PAYE submission deadlines, with PAYE deductions due to HMRC by the 19th of each month for postal payments and by the 22nd for electronic payments.
Updates to State Pension & Benefits
From 7 April 2025, recipients of the State Pension will see a 4.1% increase, bringing the new full weekly payment to £230.25. This uplift is part of the government’s ongoing efforts to adjust pensions in line with inflation and rising living costs.
Working-age benefits will also rise by 1.7%, reflecting changes in the Consumer Price Index (CPI). These adjustments aim to provide additional financial support to low-income households, but they also mean businesses will need to factor in potential wage cost increases as employees receive adjusted benefits.
National Minimum Wage Increases (From 1 April 2025)
The National Minimum Wage (NMW) is increasing across all age brackets, with some of the most significant rises seen for younger workers.
- Workers aged 21 and over will now be entitled to £12.21 per hour, a 6.7% increase from the previous rate.
- Workers aged 18-20 will see a 16.3% increase, raising their minimum hourly wage to £10.
- Workers aged 16-17 will experience an 18% increase, bringing their minimum wage to £7.55 per hour.
These changes will have an impact on payroll costs for businesses that employ younger workers, particularly in industries such as retail, hospitality, and construction.
Employers must ensure payroll systems are updated accordingly to reflect the new rates from 1 April 2025.
Business Rates & Fuel Duty
Business rates are also seeing adjustments in the new tax year. The standard business rates multiplier will increase to 55.5p, meaning businesses with larger properties will face higher rates.
However, small businesses with properties valued below £51,000 will continue to benefit from a lower multiplier of 49.9p, ensuring they remain protected from rising costs.
Fuel duty remains frozen for another 12 months, which will come as welcome news for businesses with transport and logistics expenses.
Keeping fuel costs stable provides some relief at a time when other costs, such as National Insurance and wages, are increasing.
What These Changes Mean for Businesses & Individuals
With adjustments to tax rates, payroll costs, and business expenses, the 2025/26 tax year brings several financial implications. Businesses will need to prepare for increased employer NICs, wage hikes, and potential changes in investment strategies due to rising CGT rates.
For individuals, state pension increases and higher minimum wage rates will offer additional financial support, but tax obligations remain an important consideration.
Staying ahead of these changes is essential for effective financial planning. At Ryans, we specialise in helping businesses and individuals navigate tax updates, ensuring compliance while maximising tax efficiency.
Whether you’re an employer managing payroll, a business owner handling VAT and corporation tax, or an investor planning asset disposals, our team can provide expert advice tailored to your needs.
Important 2025 Tax & Financial Announcements
Throughout the year, key financial and tax announcements will shape the economic landscape, influencing everything from personal taxation and business planning to pensions and benefits.
Understanding these updates as they are released can help individuals and businesses prepare for potential changes that could impact their financial commitments.
Spring Budget Forecast – 26 March 2025
The Spring Budget is one of the most anticipated financial events of the year, with the Chancellor of the Exchequer delivering a comprehensive statement on the UK’s economic outlook, spending plans, and potential tax changes.
Scheduled for 26 March 2025, this budget will outline government priorities for the upcoming financial year, with possible announcements affecting Income Tax thresholds, Corporation Tax rates, VAT policies, and funding for key sectors.
Businesses and individuals should pay close attention to any proposed tax reliefs, new allowances, or regulatory shifts that could influence financial planning.
Previous budgets have introduced measures such as business rates relief, capital allowance reforms, and National Insurance adjustments, so it is likely that similar policy changes could be announced.
The budget could also provide clarity on the long-term outlook for key tax initiatives, such as Making Tax Digital (MTD) and future Corporation Tax thresholds.
For businesses, this is the perfect time to review tax strategies and consider adjustments to take advantage of any reliefs or changes in tax law. At Ryans, we closely monitor budget announcements to provide tailored advice, ensuring that businesses and individuals remain compliant while making the most of any new opportunities.
Autumn Inflation & Wage Growth Announcements
Two major economic indicators will be released in the autumn of 2025, shaping decisions on pensions, benefits, and general cost-of-living adjustments.
These figures, published by the Office for National Statistics (ONS), play a direct role in determining annual increases in state benefits and pensions.
Mid-September 2025 – UK Wage Growth Data
Each September, the ONS publishes data on wage growth across the UK, covering the period from May to July. This figure is crucial as it forms one part of the triple lock calculation for the state pension.
The triple lock ensures that the state pension increases by the highest of the following:
- Average earnings growth
- Consumer Price Index (CPI) inflation
- 2.5% (a guaranteed minimum increase)
If wage growth is particularly strong, this could lead to a significant boost in pension payments from April 2026. However, businesses should also take note, as rising wages may put pressure on payroll costs, particularly in sectors reliant on lower-paid workers.
Mid-October 2025 – Inflation Announcement for September 2025
The Consumer Price Index (CPI) inflation rate for September 2025 will be announced in mid-October. This figure will determine how much the state pension and various working-age benefits will increase in April 2026.
If inflation remains high, pensioners and benefit claimants will see a larger-than-usual uplift, but businesses may also face higher costs due to rising wages and operational expenses.
The inflation announcement is particularly relevant for those managing fixed incomes, pension planning, and long-term financial commitments. It also plays a role in influencing interest rates, tax allowances, and broader economic policies.
Other Important Tax Deadlines for 2025/26
Staying on top of tax deadlines is crucial for businesses and individuals alike. Missing key dates can result in penalties, interest charges, and unnecessary stress. The 2025/26 tax year introduces several important deadlines across payroll, corporation tax, capital gains tax, and self-assessment.
Below, we’ve outlined the critical dates you need to be aware of to remain compliant and manage your financial obligations effectively.
PAYE & Payroll Deadlines
The new tax year brings updates to payroll systems, tax codes, and employer responsibilities. Employers should ensure their payroll software is updated to reflect the latest tax codes and National Insurance thresholds before the 6 April 2025 start date.
By 19 April 2025, employers must submit their final Full Payment Submission (FPS) for the 2024/25 tax year, ensuring all salary, tax, and National Insurance data for employees is accurately reported to HMRC.
Following this, by 31 May 2025, all employers must provide their employees with a P60 form, summarising their total earnings and tax deductions for the previous tax year. Any delays in issuing these forms can cause issues for employees when filing tax returns or applying for financial services.
For businesses offering benefits such as company cars, health insurance, or expense reimbursements, P11D forms must be submitted to HMRC by 6 July 2025.
These forms detail the benefits provided to employees and ensure the correct tax is applied. Employers must then make payment for Class 1A National Insurance Contributions (NICs) on these benefits, with postal payments due by 19 July 2025 and online payments due by 22 July 2025.
Staying compliant with these deadlines is essential to avoid penalties and maintain accurate financial records. Businesses using payroll software should ensure submissions are automated and completed on time to prevent any disruptions.
Corporation Tax & Capital Gains Tax Deadlines
For companies operating in the UK, corporation tax payments are due nine months and one day after the end of the company’s accounting period.
This means if a company’s financial year ends on 31 December 2025, corporation tax must be paid by 1 October 2026. Companies should plan ahead to ensure sufficient funds are available for tax payments, avoiding late payment interest charges from HMRC.
Individuals and businesses selling second properties or investment properties should also be aware of the capital gains tax (CGT) deadline. Any capital gains tax due on a second property sale must be reported and paid within 60 days of the sale’s completion.
This requirement, introduced in recent years, is designed to ensure tax liabilities are settled promptly. Sellers should factor in CGT obligations when planning property transactions to avoid unexpected tax bills.
Self-Assessment Payment Deadlines
For self-employed individuals and those under self-assessment, tax payments are made in two installments, known as payments on account. These advance tax payments help spread the cost of the year’s tax bill, reducing the risk of large, lump-sum payments in January.
The second payment on account for the 2024/25 tax year is due by 31 July 2025. This payment covers any outstanding tax owed for the previous tax year.
Individuals should review their earnings and tax liabilities to ensure they pay the correct amount, as overpayments may result in a tax refund, while underpayments could lead to interest charges.
To avoid cash flow disruptions, self-employed individuals should set aside funds in advance to cover tax payments and ensure timely submissions to HMRC.
If earnings have changed significantly, adjusting payments on account may be beneficial, and professional tax advice can help manage obligations efficiently.
What should I do before the end of the tax year?
As we approach the end of the tax year on April 5th, 2024, it’s important to take proactive steps to ensure your finances are optimally arranged. Here are some practical tips to consider for effective tax-saving and financial planning:
Maximise ISA Contributions
Ensure you’ve fully utilised your annual ISA allowance of £20,000. This can be split across different types of ISAs, including Cash ISAs and Stocks and Shares ISAs. Utilising your full ISA allowance can provide tax-free growth and income.
Pension Contributions
Review your pension contributions to make the most of the tax relief available. You can contribute up to 100% of your annual earnings or £40,000, whichever is lower. Remember, contributing to your pension can also reduce your overall taxable income.
Capital Gains Tax (CGT) Allowance
Consider utilising your annual CGT allowance. For the 2024/25 tax year, this stands at £3,000. Realising gains within this allowance can be a tax-efficient way to manage investments.
Charitable Donations
If you make charitable donations, doing so under Gift Aid can increase the value of your donation and provide you with tax relief.
Inheritance Tax Planning
Consider making use of your annual exemption for gifts, which is £3,000 per tax year. This can be a useful tool in estate planning and reducing potential future inheritance tax liabilities.
Dividend Allowance
If you have investments that pay dividends, make sure you’re taking advantage of your £500 tax-free dividend allowance for the 2024/25 tax year.
These actions not only help in reducing your tax liability but also in optimising your overall financial health. Remember, effective tax planning is a year-round process.
At Ryans, we believe in helping our clients understand these opportunities and take action well before deadlines approach. For personalised advice and support in managing your financial planning and making the most of tax-saving opportunities, our team is here to assist.
2025/26 Tax Year Key Questions Answered
When does the UK tax year 2025/26 start and end?
The 2025/26 tax year begins on 6 April 2025 and ends on 5 April 2026.
What is the self-assessment deadline for 2025/26?
You must submit your online self-assessment tax return for 2024/25 by 31 January 2026. If filing by paper, the deadline is 31 October 2025.
What are the key PAYE deadlines for employers?
Employers must submit payroll data by the 19th of each month, with electronic payments due by the 22nd. The final Full Payment Submission (FPS) for the previous tax year must be sent by 19 April 2025.
What are the VAT return deadlines for businesses?
VAT returns and payments must be filed one month and seven days after the end of your VAT accounting period. Businesses should ensure records are up to date to avoid late penalties.
How much is National Insurance increasing in 2025?
From April 2025, Employers’ National Insurance will rise from 13.8% to 15%, with a new second threshold set at £5,000 per year.
What is changing with Capital Gains Tax in 2025?
The Capital Gains Tax (CGT) rate for Business Asset Disposal Relief is increasing from 10% to 14% in April 2025. A further increase to 18% is planned for April 2026.
How much is the National Minimum Wage increasing?
From 1 April 2025, the National Minimum Wage (NMW) will rise to:
- £12.21 per hour for workers aged 21 and over
- £10 per hour for workers aged 18-20
- £7.55 per hour for workers aged 16-17
Businesses should update payroll systems accordingly to remain compliant with employment law.
Staying informed about tax deadlines is essential for effective financial planning and compliance.
Whether you’re a business owner managing payroll, a self-employed professional handling self-assessment, or an investor navigating capital gains tax, keeping track of key dates ensures you remain ahead of HMRC obligations.
At Ryans, our tax specialists provide tailored support to help businesses and individuals manage their tax responsibilities efficiently. Whether you need assistance with payroll, VAT returns, or tax planning strategies, our team is here to help.
How Ryans Can Help You Stay Tax-Compliant in 2025/26
Navigating the complexities of the UK tax system can be challenging, especially as tax laws and deadlines continue to evolve.
Whether you’re a business owner, self-employed, or managing payroll for a growing team, staying compliant with HMRC regulations is essential to avoid penalties and optimise tax efficiency.
At Ryans, we offer expert guidance to help individuals and businesses stay on top of their tax obligations while making the most of available tax-saving opportunities.
Expert Tax Planning & Compliance Support
Tax planning is more than just meeting deadlines—it’s about structuring your finances efficiently to minimise liabilities and improve cash flow. At Ryans, we provide strategic tax planning advice tailored to your specific circumstances, ensuring you are prepared for changes in tax laws, thresholds, and allowances.
Our team works proactively to identify opportunities for savings while keeping your business compliant with the latest regulations.
PAYE & Payroll Management
Managing payroll can be a time-consuming process, particularly for businesses navigating the complexities of PAYE, National Insurance, and statutory employee benefits.
Our payroll management services ensure that your business remains compliant with HMRC’s Real-Time Information (RTI) requirements.
We handle everything from salary calculations and tax deductions to issuing payslips and filing payroll reports on time. By outsourcing payroll to Ryans, businesses can avoid administrative burdens and costly errors.
VAT Return Filing & Advisory
VAT compliance is a crucial aspect of running a VAT-registered business. Late filings, incorrect VAT rates, and failure to comply with Making Tax Digital (MTD) requirements can result in significant penalties.
At Ryans, we assist businesses with VAT return preparation, ensuring accurate submissions that align with HMRC rules. We also offer expert VAT advisory services, helping businesses navigate complex VAT regulations, reclaim VAT efficiently, and choose the most suitable VAT scheme for their needs.
Self-Assessment Tax Return Assistance
For self-employed professionals, landlords, and individuals with additional income, filing a self-assessment tax return accurately and on time is crucial.
Ryans provides end-to-end support for self-assessment tax returns, helping clients understand their tax liabilities, claim allowable expenses, and avoid late submission penalties.
Whether you need help registering for self-assessment, calculating payments on account, or filing your return ahead of the 31 January 2026 deadline, our team ensures a stress-free process.
Ongoing Business Tax Strategy Support
The tax landscape is constantly evolving, with annual changes to Corporation Tax, Capital Gains Tax, VAT, and employer obligations. Ryans offers ongoing business tax strategy support to help companies stay ahead of financial changes.
From restructuring advice to tax relief optimisation, we work closely with our clients to develop tax-efficient strategies that align with their business goals.
Tax compliance doesn’t have to be overwhelming. With expert guidance from Ryans, you can stay on top of your obligations, avoid unnecessary penalties, and focus on growing your business.