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What Documents You Need Before Filing Your Personal Tax Return

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What Documents You Need Before Filing Your Personal Tax Return

What Documents You Need Before Filing Your Personal Tax Return

At Payless Accountants, we’ve put together this simple guide to help you prepare efficiently — especially if you’re handling partnership tax returns.

1. Proof of Income

Before filing your personal tax return, the first step is collecting all documents that confirm your income sources. These may include:

  • P60 – Summarises your annual pay and tax paid through your employer.

  • P45 – If you’ve left a job during the tax year, this form shows how much tax you’ve already paid.

  • Payslips – Useful for verifying income accuracy.

  • Self-Employment Records – Invoices, receipts, and bank statements if you’re running your own business.

  • Partnership Income Statements – If you’re a member of a partnership, your Partnership Statement (SA800) or income allocation from the partnership will be essential for your Partnership Tax Return.

  • Rental Income Records – Include rent received, property expenses, and mortgage interest details if you earn from property.

2. Expense Records

Claiming allowable expenses is one of the best ways to reduce your taxable income. You’ll need to have all relevant receipts and documentation ready. This might include:

  • Business travel costs and mileage logs

  • Office or home office expenses

  • Utility bills (if used for business)

  • Professional fees and subscriptions

  • Advertising, marketing, or website costs

  • Equipment, repairs, or maintenance expenses

If you are part of a partnership, ensure that expenses are correctly divided among partners before filing your partnership tax returns.

3. Investment and Savings Details

Many taxpayers overlook income earned from investments and savings. Make sure you include:

  • Bank interest statements (taxed or untaxed)

  • Dividend vouchers from shares or stocks

  • Details of capital gains from selling assets or investments

  • ISA contributions (for reference, though tax-free)

Accurately reporting investment income ensures compliance with HMRC and avoids penalties later.

4. Pension and Benefits Information

If you receive any of the following, you’ll need documentation to report them properly:

  • State Pension or private pension statements

  • Employment benefits such as company car, medical insurance, or accommodation

  • Child benefit (if you or your partner earn over £50,000)

Providing accurate benefit details is crucial for an error-free personal tax return submission.

5. Tax Relief and Deduction Proof

To maximise your potential refunds, you should prepare evidence for all tax relief claims such as:

  • Charitable donations made under Gift Aid

  • Pension contributions

  • Professional membership fees

  • Educational or training expenses related to your profession

For partnerships, partners can also claim reliefs related to their share of business expenses.

6. Unique Taxpayer Reference (UTR) and National Insurance Number

Your UTR number is vital for filing your tax return — it identifies you to HMRC. Partners will also need the Partnership UTR when submitting their Partnership Tax Returns. Make sure your National Insurance number is included to ensure correct calculation of contributions.

7. Records of Previous Tax Returns

Keeping a copy of last year’s tax return can help ensure consistency and accuracy in your new submission. It also helps your accountant spot trends, missed claims, or potential areas for tax savings.

How Payless Accountants Can Help

At Payless Accountants, we specialise in making the tax filing process seamless for individuals and business partners alike. Our team ensures that your personal and partnership tax returns are accurate, compliant, and optimised for potential savings. We handle everything from documentation review to submission, helping you meet HMRC deadlines confidently.

Whether you’re self-employed, part of a partnership, or managing multiple income sources, Payless Accountants is here to make tax season stress-free.

Disclaimer:

This article is for general information purposes only and does not constitute professional advice. Always consult with a qualified accountant before making tax-related decisions.