The short answer
Start here.
Start with a clear record of all income and business expenses for the tax year. Keep the evidence behind each figure, including invoices, receipts and bank statements. Other income and gains may also need to be reported.
Your next moves
A practical checklist.
- Gather sales, income and expense records for the tax year.
- Keep invoices, receipts and bank statements that support the entries.
- Flag property, employment, investment or other income separately.
- Check the record-keeping guidance for each type of income you need to report, and agree a secure way to share the documents your accountant requests.
Good to know
The details matter.
HMRC says self-employed people must keep accurate records of sales, income and business expenses. VAT and PAYE records can also matter where relevant.
You do not normally send the underlying records with the tax return, but HMRC may ask to see them. This guide is a preparation checklist, not a complete list for every taxpayer.