Submitting an accurate Self-Assessment tax return is important, but errors can occasionally slip through. If you’ve noticed a mistake in your tax return, there is no need to stress. Our guide will walk you through correcting errors in your tax return, whether you filed online or by post, and cover important deadlines to keep in mind.

Why Correcting Errors in Your Tax Return Matters

Correcting errors on your tax return ensures that your records with HMRC are accurate. This is important for a few reasons:

You avoid potential fines for incorrect submissions.
You can claim any extra tax relief you may have missed.
You keep a clean financial record, which can be helpful if you need to prove your income for any reason.

Fixing mistakes on your tax return helps you stay on top of your finances and avoid future problems. It’s always better to sort out any errors now than to deal with issues later.

How Long Do You Have to Correct a Tax Return?

You have a window of 12 months from the original filing deadline to make corrections. So, if you submitted your return on 31 January 2023, you can amend it until 31 January 2024.

If you need to correct a tax return for a year older than this, you can still request a correction by claiming “overpayment relief,” but there’s a different process. Overpayment relief allows you to correct returns up to four years after the end of the tax year.

How to Correct a Self-Assessment Tax Return Online

If you filed your tax return online, you can make corrections easily through your HMRC online account. Follow these steps:

Wait 72 hours after submitting your original return to make changes.
Sign in to your HMRC account.
Go to “Self Assessment” and select “More Self Assessment details.”
Choose “At a glance” from the left-side menu, then click on “Tax return options.”
Select the tax year you want to amend, make your corrections, and resubmit.

This simple process ensures your changes are officially recorded with HMRC.

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How to Correct a Self-Assessment Tax Return on Paper

For those who submitted their return by post, here’s what you need to do to correct it:

Download the necessary tax return forms from HMRC’s website.
Clearly mark each page with “amendment” so HMRC knows these are changes.
Include your name and Unique Taxpayer Reference (UTR) on each page.
Send the amended forms to the address listed on your Self Assessment paperwork:
Self Assessment
HM Revenue and Customs
BX9 1AS

Make sure to check each corrected page to ensure all details are accurate.

What If You Need to Correct an Older Tax Return?

If it’s been more than 12 months since the filing deadline, you’ll need to write to HMRC and request overpayment relief. In your letter, include:

The tax year you want to correct.
The reason for the correction.
The amount you believe you overpaid or underpaid.
A signed statement confirming that the information is correct.

This request can be made up to four years after the end of the relevant tax year, so it’s a good option for older corrections.

Does Correcting a Self-Assessment Tax Return Affect Your Tax Bill?

Correcting a self-assessment tax return can affect your tax bill in different ways. If the correction shows that you overpaid tax, HMRC will arrange a refund. They will deposit the refund directly into your account if your bank details have been given to them. On the other hand, if the changes indicate that you owe more tax, HMRC will update your bill to reflect the additional amount. It’s important to pay this promptly to avoid any interest charges.

Tips to Avoid Errors in Future Self-Assessment Tax Returns

To reduce the chance of errors next time, consider these simple tips:

Stay Organised: Keep your financial records in one place and up to date.
Double-Check Entries: Review each entry carefully before submitting.
Use Reliable Software: Many digital tools can help prevent common mistakes.
Get Professional Help: If you have complex tax needs, consulting a tax advisor can make the process smoother and more accurate.

Conclusion

Correcting errors in your Self-Assessment tax return is straightforward, whether you filed online or on paper. Making corrections on time helps you avoid fines and ensures your records with HMRC are accurate. So if you spot a mistake, don’t wait – take action and keep your tax affairs in good order.
If you have any questions about your Self-Assessment tax return, feel free to book a free consultation with us, and our experts will provide you with the guidance you need.