Do I need a tax return?

Many individuals with relatively simple tax affairs are now able to deal with various issues with Her Majesty's Revenue & Customs (HMRC) by telephone and this can dispense with the need to file an annual tax return.

You can notify HMRC of any changes in personal circumstances, including changes which may affect any claims to personal allowances you are entitled to.  You can also notify HMRC by telephone of changes to your employment or self-employment status and advise them of any untaxed income, up to a limit of £2,500.

Where untaxed income exceeds £2,500, it is necessary for the individual to complete and file a self assessment tax return.  As your rental income is £2,600, you should therefore contact your local tax office and ask them to issue a tax return form to you.

Before completing your tax return form you should consider seeking advice from an accountant.  They will be able to review your circumstances to ensure that you claim any reliefs and deductions available, in order to minimise your liability to tax. 

Date published 5 Dec 2012

This article is intended to inform rather than advise and is based on legislation and practice at the time. Taxpayer’s circumstances do vary and if you feel that the information provided is beneficial it is important that you contact us before implementation. If you take, or do not take action as a result of reading this article, before receiving our written endorsement, we will accept no responsibility for any financial loss incurred.