As an influencer in the UK, managing your finances goes beyond tracking brand deals and sponsorships. One of the most important aspects of financial management is keeping on top of your tax deadlines. Missing HMRC deadlines can lead to unnecessary penalties, interest charges, and even damage to your financial reputation. To help you stay compliant and stress-free, here’s a detailed guide to the essential tax deadlines every UK influencer should know.

Self-Assessment Registration Deadline

If you are a new influencer earning income outside of PAYE employment, you’ll need to register for self-assessment with HMRC. The deadline for registration is 5 October following the end of the tax year in which you earned income.

For example, if you began earning from influencing during the 2024/25 tax year (ending 5 April 2025), you must register by 5 October 2025.

Tax Year Dates

The UK tax year runs from 6 April to 5 April of the following year. Keeping this period in mind helps you organise your accounts, track expenses, and prepare income records correctly for HMRC.

Online and Paper Tax Return Deadlines

There are two main deadlines for submitting your self-assessment tax return:

• 31 October – If filing a paper return.

• 31 January – If filing online.

Most influencers choose online filing for flexibility and extra time, but it’s important not to leave it to the last minute. HMRC’s system can be extremely busy near the deadline, leading to delays and potential fines.

Tax Payment Deadlines

Filing your return isn’t the only task — you also need to pay what you owe. The main deadlines are:

• 31 January – Final payment for the previous tax year (also the first ‘payment on account’ for the current tax year, if applicable).

• 31 July – Second ‘payment on account’ deadline, if your tax liability is high enough.

Payments on account are advance payments towards your next year’s tax bill. Many influencers are surprised by this system, so planning ahead is vital to avoid cash flow issues.

VAT Deadlines

If your income exceeds £90,000 (2025 VAT threshold), you must register for VAT. VAT returns are usually filed quarterly, and the deadlines vary depending on your assigned VAT accounting period. Missing these can result in penalties and interest charges, so it’s best to set reminders.

Confirmation Statement and Corporation Tax Deadlines

If you’ve set up a limited company for your influencer business, additional deadlines apply:

• Confirmation Statement – Due annually within 14 days of your company’s incorporation anniversary.

• Corporation Tax Return (CT600) – Due 12 months after your company’s accounting year end.

• Corporation Tax Payment – Usually due 9 months and 1 day after the year end.

Why Staying Organised Matters

Meeting these deadlines helps you avoid late fees and HMRC scrutiny. More importantly, it gives you peace of mind and allows you to focus on creating content without financial stress. Using digital accounting tools or working with professionals can ensure you never miss a date.

Conclusion

Keeping up with HMRC deadlines is essential for every UK influencer. From self-assessment and VAT to corporation tax, knowing these dates can save you money and stress. Staying organised, preparing in advance, and seeking help from accountants for influencers ensures you remain compliant while focusing on growing your personal brand.