When is the self-assessment deadline?

Online self-assessment tax returns must be filed by 31 January following the end of the tax year. Payment is also due by this date. For the 2024/25 tax year, the deadline is 31 January 2026.

What happens if I file late?

You'll receive an automatic £100 fine if you're even one day late. After 3 months, it's £10 per day (up to £900). After 6 and 12 months, additional penalties of 5% of tax owed or £300 apply. Interest is also charged on late payments.

Can I file a self-assessment return if I'm employed?

Yes, if you have self-employment income over £1,000 in addition to employment. You'll report both PAYE income and self-employment income on your return.

How do I get a UTR number?

Register for self-assessment on the HMRC website. They'll send your Unique Taxpayer Reference (UTR) by post within 10 working days. You'll need this to file your return.

Do I need an accountant for self-assessment?

Not necessarily. If your finances are straightforward, you can file yourself using software like MoneyMiles. However, if you have complex income or expenses, an accountant can help maximize deductions.

Can I prepare my self-assessment on my phone?

Yes, the MoneyMiles mobile app lets you review your tax summary, generate reports, and export data in HMRC-compatible format - all from your phone. However, we recommend using the desktop version for final submission.

Self-Assessment Tax Return Guide for UK Delivery Drivers

Complete step-by-step guide to filing your self-assessment tax return. Learn deadlines, required documents, and avoid common mistakes.

14 min read

Last updated: January 2025

What is Self-Assessment?

Self-assessment is the system HMRC uses to collect income tax and National Insurance from self-employed individuals. As a delivery driver working with platforms like Uber, Deliveroo, or Just Eat, you're classified as self-employed and must complete an annual self-assessment tax return.

Key Facts:

• Tax year runs from 6 April to 5 April
• You report all income and expenses for the year
• HMRC calculates tax owed based on your return
• Payment deadline: 31 January

Do You Need to File?

You must file a self-assessment tax return if:

You earned more than £1,000 from self-employment
You're self-employed and earned over £12,570 (after expenses)
You have multiple income sources (e.g., employed + self-employed)
You need to claim certain tax reliefs

How to Register for Self-Assessment

1Go to gov.uk

Visit gov.uk/register-for-self-assessment and click "Register"

2Provide Your Details

National Insurance number, address, and business details

3Receive Your UTR

HMRC will post your Unique Taxpayer Reference within 10 days

Key Deadlines

31 January 2026

Deadline for 2024/25 tax return and payment

Step-by-Step Filing Process

Follow these steps to complete your self-assessment:

1. Register for Self-Assessment

Visit gov.uk and register by 5 October after the end of the tax year you started self-employment. You'll receive a UTR number.

2. Gather Your Documents

Collect all records of income, expenses, and receipts for the tax year (6 April to 5 April).

3. Calculate Your Profit

Total income minus allowable expenses equals your profit.

4. Complete the Tax Return

Fill in the SA100 form online, including employment, self-employment, and any other income.

5. Review and Submit

Check all figures carefully, then submit online by 31 January.

6. Pay Your Tax Bill

Pay any tax owed by 31 January via bank transfer, debit card, or Direct Debit.

📱 Your Tax Data, Always in Your Pocket

Filing self-assessment requires organizing income, expenses, and mileage for the entire year. With MoneyMiles mobile, this information is automatically compiled as you work.

✓Year-to-date income tracking (synced from Uber/Deliveroo/Just Eat)
✓Complete expense history with receipt photos
✓Total business miles driven (GPS-verified)
✓Generate self-assessment reports with one tap
✓Export to HMRC-compatible format or share with accountant

Frequently Asked Questions

Prepare Your Self-Assessment with MoneyMiles

All your income, expenses, and mileage tracked automatically. Generate tax-ready reports in seconds.