When is the deadline to file my self-assessment tax return in Surrey?
Online returns must be filed by 31 January following the end of the tax year, with any tax owed paid by the same date. Paper returns have an earlier deadline of 31 October. Missing the deadline triggers an automatic £100 penalty, with further charges after three months.
Do I need a Surrey accountant if I can file my return online myself?
HMRC's online portal lets you file directly, but an accountant typically pays for themselves by spotting allowable expenses, capital allowances, marriage allowance, pension relief and other reliefs most people miss. They also handle HMRC enquiries on your behalf and can spread payments on account more strategically.
What records do I need to give my accountant?
Bank statements covering the tax year, invoices issued and received, P60/P45 from employment, dividend vouchers, rental statements with mortgage interest splits, pension contribution certificates, gift aid donations, and any HMRC correspondence. Most accountants now accept everything digitally.
How much does a tax return cost?
Most Surrey firms quote a fixed fee. A simple employed return with one rental property typically costs £200–£350; a sole trader return £250–£500; complex returns with capital gains, foreign income or multiple properties £500–£1,000+. Always ask for a fixed quote in writing before engaging.
Can my accountant deal with HMRC on my behalf if there's an enquiry?
Yes — once you sign a 64-8 authorisation form, your accountant becomes your agent for self-assessment. They can answer routine HMRC queries, handle compliance checks, and represent you in formal enquiries, which dramatically reduces the stress of any HMRC contact.