Self Assessment Tax Returns: Self Employed Industries

Self-Assessment for Carers

If you are self-employed and have a job in the care industry, there are many reasons why you may be eligible to receive a tax rebate, but to do so it is important to fill out a self-assessment tax return first. The deadlines for self-assessment tax returns are closely drawing in, so be aware of how you want to submit yours: If this is going to be completed on paper, returns must be sent to HMRC by 31^st October at the latest. If it is an online submission, the deadline is 31^st January. It is important to be aware of the fines issued by HMRC if returns are not filed in due time. HMRC charge a fixed penalty of £100 for late submission, with increases on this dependent on the length of the delay.

As a taxpayer, you can claim back for up to four years, including rebates on…

• ·         Mileage

Many care workers will use their own vehicle for work; such as for visiting patients in their own homes or in care homes. If this is the case, you could be entitled to claim tax back at a rate of 45p per mile. Bear in mind however, that HMRC will not consider driving to and from work (i.e. normal commuting) as business mileage, so this is not something you will be able to claim on. To guarantee a rebate, ensure you log your mileage incorporating dates and distance. Keeping a record of such information is important for self-assessments to be completed.

• ·         Uniform

A second factor to take into consideration when self-employed in the care industry is uniform. If laundry facilities are not provided and you have to wash your own uniform at home, you are entitled to a rebate, but note that HMRC insist on it being a recognisable uniform only worn for work purposes, or a uniform with a specific logo on. Wearing your own clothes to work will not be considered. More information can be found on http://www.u-tax.co.uk/jobs/carers-allowance.

So what can U-Tax do?

For just £75+VAT, U-Tax will deal with all of your queries regarding self-assessment. This includes completing your tax return for you, calculating how much you can claim back, filing your return to HMRC, dealing with HMRC on your behalf, and being available to help with any issues or questions you may have.