What to Do if HMRC Rejects Your Self Assessment Tax Return Submission

If you are a sole trader submitting a Self Assessment tax return and HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) rejects it, this usually means there is an issue with the information you provided or the way you submitted your return. Understanding the cause and how to resolve it promptly is important to avoid penalties or interest.

Common Reasons for Rejection

• Incorrect or missing information: This could include a mismatch in your Unique Taxpayer Reference (UTR), National Insurance number, or errors in your income or expense figures.
• Late registration or filing: If you did not notify HMRC by 5 October following the end of the tax year that you needed to file a return, your submission may be rejected or delayed.
• Technical issues: Occasionally, online submissions fail due to system errors or connectivity problems.

Steps to Take After Rejection

1. Check the rejection message carefully: HMRC usually provides a specific reason or error code explaining why your return was rejected. This will guide your next steps.
2. Review your information: Go through your tax return details, ensuring your UTR, National Insurance number, and income records are accurate and complete. Keep your business records handy to verify figures.
3. Correct and resubmit: If there was an error in your return, correct it and try submitting again online. If you experienced a technical problem, wait a short time and retry.
4. Contact HMRC if unsure: If you cannot identify the issue or continue to have problems submitting, contact HMRC’s Self Assessment helpline for guidance. They can confirm if your registration is correct and advise on resolving submission issues.

Additional Points for Sole Traders

As a sole trader, you must keep clear records of your income and expenses throughout the tax year to complete your return accurately. If your return is rejected due to missing or inconsistent information, this record-keeping will help you correct the issues.

Remember, if you have not registered for Self Assessment by 5 October following the end of the tax year, HMRC may reject your return or impose penalties. You can register online to avoid this.

When to Seek Further Help

If you face repeated rejections or complex problems, such as issues with your online account or payment calculations, consider getting professional advice from an accountant or tax advisor who specialises in Self Assessment for sole traders.

HMRC’s official guidance on Self Assessment tax returns provides the most reliable information on deadlines, registration, and submission. Always refer to their resources or contact them directly to confirm your specific situation.

Official reference: https://www.gov.uk/self-assessment-tax-returns. Always check the latest official guidance. Related forms: Browse our form category.

Important: This article provides general information. Government rules, forms and procedures can change, and this article may not reflect the latest updates. Check current GOV.UK guidance or the relevant authority before relying on it. ITG & Co. is independent and is not affiliated with a government department.