Turnaround depends on how quickly you can provide the documents we request and how straightforward your income is. For returns involving employment income, a small amount of self-employment, or property income from a single source, we can typically have a draft ready within a few working days of receiving everything we need. More complex returns involving multiple income sources, share disposals, or overseas income will take a little longer. The first step is getting a quote, at which point we can give you a realistic timeline.

Our standard self assessment fee starts from £150 for a straightforward return. An urgent return may carry an additional charge depending on the complexity and how quickly you need it filed. The fee covers preparation of the SA100 and SA302, identification of applicable allowances and expenses, your review of the draft, submission to HMRC, and a confirmation of your tax liability and any penalties already incurred. The quote is confirmed before work begins, so there is nothing added afterwards.

It matters in the sense that the accuracy of the return depends on the information available, but it does not mean we cannot help. We work with clients whose records are incomplete or disorganised fairly regularly. We will tell you clearly what we have, what is missing, and what the options are. If there are gaps that need to be estimated or explained to HMRC, we will advise you on the appropriate approach rather than just guessing.

There is no obligation to become an ongoing client. A number of clients come to us for a one-off return and then choose to continue; others file once and that is the end of it. Either is fine. If you decide you would like us to handle future returns or other compliance work, we can discuss that once the urgent return is done. Nothing is assumed or added without your agreement.

Yes. The penalty for a late return is fixed at £100 from the first day it is overdue, rising with further charges after three months and six months. Filing now stops further penalties from accruing, and in some circumstances HMRC will consider a reasonable excuse appeal for part or all of the penalty already charged. We can advise on whether an appeal is worth pursuing once the return has been filed and the position is clear.

Yes. After submission we provide a plain-English summary covering your total tax liability for the year, any penalty already applied, the payment deadline, and whether payments on account are due for the following year. Payments on account catch a lot of people out the first time they are applied, so we flag these clearly so you are not surprised by a larger than expected bill in July.