Employers – key dates to be aware of
As an employer it’s vital to keep on top of various dates so that you stay on track and meet deadlines. Here, we outline the key dates you’ll need to be aware of.
31 January – Self-Assessment filing and payment deadline
Directors of limited companies will need to file their Self Assessment tax returns and make payment by 31 January. Late filing results in an automatic £100 penalty, so it’s advisable to submit your assessment in plenty of time.
1 April – National Minimum Wage increases
Each October, the increases to the National Minimum Wage are announced. These come into force on 1 April, so businesses must ensure they are ready to comply by that date. Non-compliance can result in penalties.
6 April – New tax year
Most changes to tax rates, bands and allowances take effect from the new tax year, which begins on 6 April. These are announced in the Budget in October, and it’s important for employers to ensure they are ready to implement any relevant changes. This can be a challenge while trying to run a business, so using a trusted accountant will help you meet all your obligations.
19 April – Employer Payment Summary submission
Employers must submit an Employer Payment Summary (EPS) to HMRC on the 19th of each month. The final submission for the tax year needs to be made on 19 April under the Real Time Information system.
31 May – Employee P60 deadline
Details of an employee’s earnings and total tax payments in a tax year are recorded on the P60 form. Employers must ensure these are issued to employees by 31 May.
5 July – PAYE Settlement Agreement (PSA) application deadline
A PAYE Settlement Agreement gives employers the chance to make an annual payment of tax and National Insurance on some expenses and benefits to employees. If you’d like to apply for a PSA, the deadline is 5 July.
6 July – P11D deadline
Any benefits made to employees and directors must be reported to HMRC via the P11D form. These must be submitted by 6 July each year.
19-22 July – Class 1A NI due
Once the P11D has been submitted, any tax and National Insurance (NI) must be paid. The deadline for paying by cheque is 19 July, while those making an electronic payment have until 22 July.
31 July – Self Assessment payment on account deadline
HMRC splits Self Assessment tax bills over two advance payment installments. The first is the bill you pay on 31 January; the second is due on 31 July. Missing the July deadline will result in accrual of interest.
19-22 October – PSA tax deadline
If you have applied for a PAYE Settlement Agreement, you’ll need to pay your tax and NI by 19 October if paying by cheque, or 22 October if paying electronically.
31 October – Self Assessment postal submission deadline
If you file your Self Assessment tax return by post, you’ll need to have it submitted by 31 October. It’s worth bearing in mind that Self Assessments will need to be submitted digitally in compliance with Making Tax Digital from April 2026 (if you earn above £50,000) or April 2027 (if you earn above £30,000).
For help with any of your employer tax obligations, contact a reputable accountant today.
