A quicker way to register
HMRC has improved its online registration process for self-assessment. Indeed, the new self-assessment registration service launched to make first-time registration far simpler.
Anyone filing a tax return for the first time for the 2025–26 tax year must act soon. Specifically, you should notify HMRC by 5 October 2026. Otherwise, you risk a penalty.
What the new service offers
You can access the service through a Personal Tax Account. Helpfully, it includes several practical improvements:
- Pre-populated information, so you type less
- Online support throughout the registration process
- The ability to save your progress and return later without losing information
- Confirmation by email or text once registration completes
Consequently, the whole process feels far less daunting than before.
Getting your Unique Taxpayer Reference faster
Once registered, you receive a Unique Taxpayer Reference (UTR). You need this number to complete your tax return.
Previously, the UTR could take up to 15 days to arrive by post. Now, however, it should appear in your online account within 72 hours. Therefore, you can start preparing your return much sooner.
Do you actually need to register?
Not everyone must file a return. Fortunately, HMRC provides an online checking tool to help you decide.
Typically, those who need to register include:
- Newly self-employed individuals with gross trading income above £1,000
- A new partner joining a business partnership
- Taxpayers with more than £2,500 of untaxed income
Key dates to note
Mark the following deadline clearly. You must submit your 2025–26 self-assessment tax return, and pay any tax due, by 31 January 2027.
If you no longer need to file
Circumstances change, so tell HMRC promptly if a return is no longer necessary. However, do not simply stop filing. Until HMRC confirms otherwise, you must continue meeting your self-assessment obligations.
Who can use the service
Currently, the new self-assessment registration service launched for individual taxpayers with a Personal Tax Account. Agents, meanwhile, must continue using the existing routes. In practice, that means submitting form CWF1 or an SA1.
Register before 5 October
Are you unsure whether self-assessment applies to you? Do not leave it until the deadline. Contact our team today. We will confirm your position, handle your registration and keep you fully compliant.
