# When do I need to register for Self Assessment?

> Quick answer · Last updated 4 July 2026

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## In short

Register by 5 October after the tax year you first owe tax that is not collected through PAYE — for example self-employed profits above the £1,000 trading allowance, rental income, or untaxed dividends.

You must register if self-employed profits exceed £1,000, you are a company director with untaxed income, you owe Capital Gains Tax, you receive untaxed rental income, or you owe the High Income Child Benefit Charge.

Register online at gov.uk/register-for-self-assessment. HMRC sends a Unique Taxpayer Reference and activation code — allow time before the 31 January filing deadline.

From April 2026, sole traders and landlords with qualifying income above £50,000 must also follow Making Tax Digital quarterly reporting rules. See our self-employment basics guide and side-hustle tax explainer.

## Related

- [Self-employment basics](https://moneyguide.org.uk/work-earnings/self-employment-basics/)
- [Side hustle tax explained](https://moneyguide.org.uk/work-earnings/side-hustle-tax-explained/)
- [How to file Self Assessment](https://moneyguide.org.uk/how-to/file-self-assessment-tax-return/)

## Primary source

gov.uk/register-for-self-assessment

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Independent UK money guidance from [Money Guide](https://moneyguide.org.uk). Information only — not regulated financial advice.