Don’t Miss Out: Why 5 October Could Make or Break Your Tax Return

HMRC is urging self-employed workers, landlords, and anyone earning from side hustles to register for Self Assessment by the 5 October deadline. Here’s why that date matters — and how getting your Unique Taxpayer Reference (UTR) on time could save you stress, penalties, and sleepless nights.

HMRCSELF-ASSESSMENTUTR5TH OCTOBERDEADLINE

The Tax Faculty

9/17/20253 min read

Make a Note of the Date

Are you self-employed, earning rental income, or running a profitable side hustle? Then mark 5 October in your calendar. HMRC has issued a reminder to those who became self-employed or received untaxed income in the last tax year: you must register for Self Assessment by 5 October to avoid costly delays.

Why does this matter? Without registering, you won’t receive your Unique Taxpayer Reference (UTR) — a 10-digit number that’s essential for filing your tax return. No UTR, no tax return… and that means the risk of penalties, interest, and unnecessary stress.

Why the 5 October Deadline Matters

📌 First-timers only: The deadline applies if you haven’t filed a Self Assessment before — for example, if 2024/25 was your first year of self-employment or earning rental/side income.

🧾 You’ll need a UTR: This number identifies you in HMRC’s system and is required before you can submit a return.

⏳ Processing time: Registering too late may mean you don’t receive your UTR in time, leaving you unable to file by the 31 January 2026 deadline.

⚠️ Penalties: Missed deadlines can lead to fines starting at £100, plus interest on late tax payments.

Who Needs to Register?

Self-employed workers (including freelancers and contractors).
Landlords receiving rental income.
Individuals with significant side hustle income (e.g., Etsy, eBay, Deliveroo, Uber, content creation).
Anyone who earned income not taxed at source during the last tax year.

How to Register

Visit HMRC’s Self Assessment registration page
Provide your details online.
Wait for HMRC to send your UTR number (usually by post).
Once you have your UTR, you can file your return using HMRC’s system or through your accountant.

Finally

The 5 October deadline is often overlooked, but it’s the gateway to staying compliant with HMRC. Don’t let missing paperwork derail your business or side hustle success. The Tax Faculty is here to help you navigate registration, deadlines, and everything in between.

📞 Need help registering or planning your Self Assessment? Get in touch with us today — and avoid the last-minute rush.

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Capital Gains Tax Expertise: The Tax Faculty LLP Managing Partner Charles Tateson Named UK Capital Gains Tax Advisor of the Year 2023

The Finance Monthly Taxation Awards recognises the achievements of tax professionals from around the globe.

Winning such an award is no small feat. It is a reflection of hard work, extensive knowledge, and an ability to navigate the intricacies of the UK tax system.

Read more about Charles and the award here.

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