What date does the UK tax year start and end?

The UK tax year starts on 6 April and ends on 5 April the following year. The current tax year is 2026/27, running from 6 April 2026 to 5 April 2027.

When does the new tax year start in 2027?

The new tax year (2027/28) starts on 6 April 2027. This is when new tax codes, updated NI rates, new minimum wage rates and revised statutory pay figures all come into effect.

What are tax weeks and tax months in the UK?

Tax weeks and tax months are HMRC's way of dividing the tax year for payroll purposes. A tax month runs from the 6th of one month to the 5th of the next. Tax week 1 starts on 6 April. They don't follow calendar months or weeks — they always count from 6 April.

What are the key deadlines to remember for tax returns?

For employers, the most important annual deadlines are: 19 April (final EPS), 31 May (P60s to employees), 6 July (P11D submission), and 19/22 July (Class 1A NICs). Monthly PAYE payments are due by the 19th (post) or 22nd (electronic) of each month.

How can I avoid penalties from HMRC?

Submit your FPS on or before every payday, pay PAYE by the 22nd of each month, issue P60s by 31 May, and submit P11Ds by 6 July. Set calendar reminders a week before each deadline and use payroll software that automates submissions where possible.