We all need a little help when it comes to completing our HMRC Self Assessment form, but with the right know-how, it doesn’t have to be difficult. Our free HMRC Self Assessment for builders guide walks you through every stage – from registering as self-employed to keeping records, calculating expenses, and paying what you owe on time.
If you’re a builder working for yourself, you’ll need to complete a Self Assessment each year to report your income and pay Income Tax and National Insurance. You’ll also need to register for the Construction Industry Scheme (CIS) if you pay subcontractors. The guide explains how to do this, what documents you’ll need, and how to avoid common mistakes.
You’ll also find advice in the guide on using the HMRC app, understanding payment plans, and what to do if you can’t pay your bill in full.
Don’t forget, the Self Assessment deadline is 31 January each year, covering income earned during the previous tax year (6 April to 5 April). So get ahead now and get confident with tax.
New: Making Tax Digital for sole traders
The latest version of our guide now includes information about Making Tax Digital (MTD) for Income Tax. It’s the biggest change to the way tax is reported in 30 years.
If you’re a sole trader or landlord, you may soon need to use HMRC-recognised software to keep digital records and send quarterly updates in addition to your yearly Self Assessment. HMRC will use your first Self Assessment to determine when you’ll need to switch.
The rollout will begin in stages:
- From 6 April 2026 for those with turnover above £50,000
- From 6 April 2027 for turnover above £30,000
- From 6 April 2028 , expected to include turnover above £20,000 (subject to legislation)
The change aims to make record-keeping more accurate and less stressful by spreading admin across the year. You can find more about how this will work for builders and how to get started in our blog, 'What HMRC’s Making Tax Digital means for sole trader builders'.
Download the free guide
- How to register with HMRC
- What documents you need
- The rules for capital and allowable expenses
- Tips to avoid or reduce penalties
- The latest information on Making Tax Digital
- How to get help without spending time on hold
