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Does a Director Need to File a Tax Return?

There is a widespread belief that every UK company director has to file a tax return. Indeed, the Government's own website suggests that being a company director alone means you should register for self-assessment and file a tax return annually.

However, that is not what tax law says. Under the law, there is no automatic requirement for a company director to file a tax return.

A return must be filed in order to claim certain tax reliefs or if there are liabilities which must be reported to HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC), such as a Capital Gains Tax liability. A return must also be filed where HMRC issue one.

When in doubt, it is less risky to file a tax return, but it is established law that unless there is a tax liability which must be reported, a return does not normally have to be filed.

The contents of this article are intended for general information purposes only and shall not be deemed to be, or constitute legal advice. We cannot accept responsibility for any loss as a result of acts or omissions taken in respect of this article.