What to do if you no longer need to complete a tax return

We've updated this guide on 31st July 2019

If you think you no longer need to complete a tax return, let HMRC know as soon as you can.

They will still expect a tax return otherwise.

How do I do it?

Call HMRC on 0300 200 3311 or use this online form.
Complete a Self Assessment tax return. You will need to wait until the end of the tax year to do this: here are the tax deadlines.
Pay the tax that is due. HMRC will also cancel your Class 2 National Insurance contributions.
Give HMRC your correct address for the next 12 months.
Keep your records for the next 6 years: receipts, bank statements, etc.

If you are working in the Construction Industry, then call the CIS helpline (0300 200 3210) instead.

You can see more details on this HMRC page.

What if I already received a letter from HMRC?

If you received a letter from HMRC, but you don’t think you need to file a tax return anymore, you should still contact them.

Three things can happen:

HMRC might agree to cancel it: you will no longer need to submit it, and they’ll also remove any penalties for missing the deadline
HMRC might not agree to cancel it: you will need to file a tax return and tell them about the change in your situation.
If HMRC thinks you have not paid enough tax, they might still agree to cancel the tax return, while also issuing you with a “simple assessment” so you can pay that extra bit.

What happens if I haven’t called HMRC yet?

Then HMRC will continue to send you Self Assessment tax returns.

That’s not all: HMRC may also create an estimated tax bill for you.

This bill is legally due and can only be removed by filing a tax return – but only within 3 years.

In short, getting out of Self Assessment should be straightforward, but we know how it can quickly get complicated.

Our TaxScouts accountants can help.

More guides & useful information

How TaxScouts works

1. Simple online tax assessment

Our online tax-bot will go over your tax situation and will make sure you won’t overpay your taxes.

2. Chat to human advisors

You can talk to one of our tax assistants at any time during the process when you have any questions.

3. We’ll sort your documents online

We’ll tell you exactly what documents you need and sort them for you online. You just upload them or snap a picture with your phone.

4. Everything gets prepared for you

Your certified accountant will go over your details & prepare your tax return for you to review. It will be filed on your behalf once you approve it.

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Who our service is for

First time tax filers

We have a simple online service that guides you through the entire process. Regardless of your reasons for doing your tax return we'll help you get it done right.

Construction workers

We'll prepare your self assessment and help to maximise your CIS tax refund. We have the lowest fees in the industry and you don't have to pay up front if you're eligible for a refund.

People living overseas

Our service allows people living abroad to prepare their income tax return online. We are able to process all returns regardless of your current country of residence.

Company directors

UK company directors are required to file their self assessment annually. TaxScouts handles this through a simple online process.

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TaxScouts ensures the self employed don't overpay on their taxes. We'll help you benefit from all the tax breaks and deductions that can be applied to your return.

And for everyone else who needs to do their self assessment

At TaxScouts we appreciate that tax returns are highly individual. Before you get assigned an accountant we make sure to understand your circumstances and help you build your optimal tax profile.