Check whether Self Assessment is likely to apply to you
Answer a few questions about how you earn money and this checker helps you understand whether Self Assessment is likely to apply to your situation.
What you get
- A plain-English likely / unlikely / worth checking result
- The key reasons behind your result
- What to do next
- Pointers to the official HMRC guidance
Based on HMRC and Companies House guidance. General information only - not professional advice.
Who this is for
- Freelancers, contractors, and self-employed workers
- Side hustlers earning income outside PAYE
- Online sellers, delivery drivers, tutors, and content creators
- People with rental income or savings interest above their allowance
- Company directors unsure whether personal Self Assessment applies
What it checks
- Whether you have self-employed income above the trading allowance
- Whether you earn income from sources outside PAYE
- Whether you are a company director in relevant circumstances
- Whether common triggers such as rental income or child benefit clawback apply
What it does not check
- The amount of tax you may owe
- Whether specific expenses or deductions are valid for your situation
- Complex cases: overseas income, trust income, or pension drawdown
- Whether you have filed correctly in previous years
How your result works
Answer up to 7 questions about your income and circumstances. You get one of three plain-English results: likely applies, unlikely to apply, or worth checking with HMRC. Each result includes the main reason and what to do next. If your situation is uncertain, the result points you to the official HMRC Self Assessment tool on GOV.UK.
Common questions
Does this file my Self Assessment return?
No. This only helps you understand whether Self Assessment may apply. Filing your return is done separately on GOV.UK through your HMRC online account.
What if I get "worth checking"?
It means your situation has an element that this checker cannot resolve at a general level. The result points you to the relevant HMRC resource for your specific circumstance.
My employer pays my tax through PAYE - do I still need to check?
Usually not, if PAYE covers all your income. But if you also have income outside your PAYE job - such as freelance work, rental income, or savings interest above your Personal Savings Allowance - you may need to register.
Is this connected to HMRC?
No. This is a general guidance tool built on published HMRC guidance. It is not affiliated with HMRC and does not share data with HMRC.
What is the trading allowance?
The trading allowance is £1,000 of gross self-employment income per tax year. If your self-employment income is below this, you generally do not need to register for Self Assessment on that income alone.
New to sole trading? Get the full setup guide.
View Sole Trader Starter PackThis checker gives a general result based on your answers. It helps you understand what may apply and what to check next. It does not assess your full circumstances or provide professional advice.