HMRC has issued guidance to people across Britain to ensure they don’t overlook completing a vital check.
Millions of UK workers with side hustles, rental income or freelance earnings are being urged to check if they need to file a tax return following a fresh alert from HM Revenue & Customs. The tax authority has launched an updated online tool designed to help people determine whether they need to complete a Self Assessment return for the 2025-26 tax year. HMRC cautioned that people may need to submit a return if they have begun working for themselves, become a landlord or earned additional income outside their primary employment.
This follows a surge in the number of Brits taking on second jobs, selling goods online or letting out spare rooms to help manage the soaring cost of living. In a social media post, HMRC said: “Unsure if you might need to complete a tax return? Check if you need to send a Self Assessment tax return.”
View 2 ImagesThe tax authority has launched an updated online tool(Image: SimpleImages via Getty Images)
The online checker covers the tax year running from April 6, 2025, to April 5, 2026, and poses a series of questions to users regarding their income and personal circumstances.
HMRC confirmed that people may need to complete a return if they are:
- Newly self-employed
- A landlord
- A new partner in a business partnership
- Earning more than £1,000 from a side hustle
The tax authority specifically drew attention to those generating income from online selling or letting out part of their home. Under existing regulations, Brits can earn up to £1,000 annually from self-employed work before they may need to register for Self Assessment under the trading allowance rules.
However, once earnings exceed that threshold, many will need to inform HMRC and potentially submit a return. Those who might be affected include people regularly selling items online through platforms such as eBay, Vinted, Etsy and Depop, especially if they are purchasing goods to resell for profit rather than simply offloading unwanted belongings.
Others potentially impacted include dog walkers, babysitters, cleaners, gardeners, delivery drivers, taxi drivers, tutors, fitness instructors and tradespeople undertaking jobs outside their regular employment.
The regulations may also apply to people generating additional income from social media and online platforms, including influencers, YouTubers, content creators and those earning commission through affiliate marketing.
Freelance professionals carrying out graphic design, photography, writing, web design or consultancy work alongside a salaried position may also need to register.
Landlords may need to submit a return if they receive rental income from a buy-to-let property, holiday let or by letting out rooms in their home above the tax-free allowance limits.
Self Assessment is the system HMRC uses to collect Income Tax from people whose earnings are not automatically taxed through PAYE. Beyond the self-employed and property landlords, tax returns are typically necessary for high earners with complicated financial arrangements, business partners and certain people with investment income.
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Those who miss registration or submission deadlines risk facing penalties and interest charges. HMRC confirmed the online tool won’t transmit personal information to the tax authority and can be accessed at no cost.
The checker is accessible through the Government website and is designed to help people determine swiftly whether they need to act before filing deadlines loom. Details are available here.