Self Assessment shouldn’t be scary, but the rules are easy to miss, especially if you’ve lived or worked abroad. In this episode of the Tax Compass Podcast from LSR Partners, Simon Roue and Laura Sant explain, in plain English.

We cover:

• Tax year & deadlines: 6 Apr–5 Apr; 31 Oct (paper), 31 Jan (online), 30 Dec (collect via tax code if <£3,000)
• Who must file now: self-employment/partnerships, UK property income, dividends/investment income over reporting thresholds, higher income child benefit charge, foreign income, remittance basis claims, etc.
• Residency & SA109: when Govt Gateway won’t cut it; why non-residents/remittance basis users usually need commercial software or an agent.
• Leaving the UK: when P85 is helpful (and when it isn’t); split-year treatment; getting your filing requirement withdrawn so penalties don’t snowball.
• Refunds from UK payroll while abroad: why HMRC may resist opening Self Assessment; PAYE vs SA systems; practical routes that actually work.
• Simple Assessment letters: what they mean and how they interact with Self Assessment (and refunds).
• Payments on account: triggers, dates, and what’s excluded (e.g., CGT, Class 2 NICs, student loans).
• Getting out of the system: when HMRC auto-removes you, and when you need to be proactive.
• Penalties & appeals: common pitfalls (address changes, missed notices, late filings) and how to prevent/resolve them.

Key Takeaways:

• File earlier for cashflow clarity and faster refunds; tax is still due 31 Jan.
• If you claim the remittance basis or are non-resident, expect to need SA109 (not available via basic Govt Gateway).
• Tell HMRC you’ve left and actively withdraw filing requirements. Don’t assume the system will.
• Payments on account can sting the first year but self-correct over time.
• When in doubt, get specialist support so you get clarity and confidence and avoid unnecessary penalties.

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