THE READING ROOM
UK tax, one question at a time.
Start with a topic that matters to you. Every guide includes official sources and a source-check date.
Income on top of your salary: do you need to file a tax return?
Most people who only have a salary taxed through PAYE don't need to file a Self Assessment tax return. But if any of the following applies, take a closer look.
Read the guideDo you pay UK tax on foreign income? Start with your residence
Rent from a flat in China or another country, interest from a bank abroad, gains on US shares: whether you pay UK tax on them depends first on whether you're UK tax resident, not on where the money is.
Read the guideGot a compliance check letter from HMRC? What to do, and how far back HMRC can go
If HMRC writes to say it's checking your tax, don't panic. This is a compliance check, sometimes called a tax enquiry. HMRC will write or call to tell you what it wants to check and why.
Read the guideMaking Tax Digital for Income Tax: what sole traders and landlords need to know
Who needs MTD, how to keep digital records and when quarterly updates are due.
Read the guideRenting out property in the UK: how rental income is taxed
Understand reporting thresholds, allowable expenses and the rules for mortgage interest.
Read the guideHow take-home pay is worked out: 2026 to 2027 tax year
Is your payslip a lot lower than the salary in your contract? Two things take most of the difference: Income Tax and National Insurance (NI).
Read the guideUnderstanding your tax code
Has your pay been fine for months, then suddenly a lot more tax comes off? Often the cause is your tax code. It tells your employer or pension provider how much of that income is tax-free.
Read the guideDo you pay tax on savings interest?
As your savings grow, so does the interest, and people start asking whether they need to pay tax on it. In fact, most people get some of their interest tax-free.
Read the guideVAT: when to register, and what VAT you can reclaim
As your business turnover grows, VAT comes into the picture. When do you have to register? And once you have, can you get back the VAT you pay on purchases?
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