Running a small business in the UK comes with a number of important tax deadlines. Missing them can lead to penalties, interest charges, and unnecessary stress. Staying organised and planning ahead can make a big difference to your cash flow and compliance.

Here is a clear guide to the key UK business tax deadlines you need to know.

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Corporation Tax Deadlines (Limited Companies)
If you run a limited company, Corporation Tax is one of your main responsibilities.

You must:

• Pay Corporation Tax within 9 months and 1 day after your accounting period ends
• File your Company Tax Return (CT600) within 12 months after the accounting period ends

For example, if your year end is 31 March 2026, your tax payment is due by 1 January 2027, and your return must be filed by 31 March 2027.

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VAT Deadlines
If your business is VAT registered, you will usually submit returns quarterly.

You must:

• Submit your VAT return and pay any VAT due within 1 month and 7 days after the end of your VAT period

All VAT returns must now be submitted using Making Tax Digital compliant software.

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PAYE and Payroll Deadlines
If you employ staff or pay yourself a salary as a director, PAYE obligations apply.

You must:

• Submit Full Payment Submissions (FPS) on or before payday
• Pay PAYE and National Insurance by the 22nd of the following month (if paying electronically)

Late submissions or payments can result in penalties, even if it is just a few days late.

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Self Assessment Deadlines
If you are a sole trader or receive additional income (such as dividends or rental income), you may need to complete a Self Assessment return.

Key dates:

• 31 January: Deadline for online tax return submission and payment
• 31 July: Second payment on account (if applicable)

Missing these deadlines results in automatic penalties starting from £100.

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Making Tax Digital for Income Tax (from April 2026)
From April 2026, Making Tax Digital (MTD) for Income Tax will apply to individuals with qualifying income over £50,000.

You will need to:

• Register for MTD (this is not automatic)
• Keep digital records
• Submit quarterly updates
• Complete a final declaration at year end

This is a major change, and early preparation is essential.

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Companies House Filing Deadlines
As a limited company, you must also file accounts with Companies House.

You must:

• File accounts within 9 months of your accounting period end
• Submit a confirmation statement at least once every 12 months

Late filing penalties apply automatically if deadlines are missed.

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Why These Deadlines Matter
Missing tax deadlines can lead to:

• Financial penalties
• Interest charges
• Increased HMRC scrutiny
• Cash flow problems

More importantly, staying on top of deadlines allows you to plan ahead and manage your tax efficiently.

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How to Stay on Track

• Keep your bookkeeping up to date throughout the year
• Use cloud accounting software like FreeAgent or Xero
• Set reminders for key deadlines
• Work with an accountant who keeps you informed

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Final Thoughts
UK tax deadlines are strict, but with the right systems in place, they are manageable. The key is to stay organised and act early rather than leaving everything to the last minute.

If you are unsure about your deadlines or want support staying compliant, getting professional advice can save you time, money, and stress.

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