Self-assessment for self-employed couriers: a step-by-step guide

Every UK self-employed courier earning over £1,000 a year must register for self-assessment with HMRC. Here's the lifecycle in plain English.

1. Register as self-employed

Do this by 5 October following the end of the tax year in which you started. You'll get a UTR (Unique Taxpayer Reference) — keep it safe.

2. Track income and expenses from day one

• Use a separate bank account for courier work
• Log every fuel receipt, toll and parking fee
• Photograph paper receipts immediately
• Use HMRC's simplified mileage method (45p/25p) OR actual costs — not both

3. File by 31 January

Your return covers 6 April to 5 April. You pay the tax you owe plus often a 'payment on account' for next year — budget 30% of profit to be safe.