Tax Return for Consultants
Complete your Self Assessment in 8 minutes. Claim all your allowable expenses and submit directly to HMRC.
- Track project income
- Travel and subsistence support
- Professional fees tracking
- MTD-ready for 2026
Example Tax Calculation
Based on typical consultants earnings £70,000/year
*Illustrative example based on 2024/25 tax rates. Your actual tax depends on your specific circumstances.
Allowable Expenses for Consultants
Claim these tax-deductible expenses to reduce your tax bill
Professional Memberships
Industry memberships and subscriptions required for your work.
Tip: Keep renewal receipts.
Travel to Client Sites
Business travel for meetings and on-site work.
Tip: Log dates, destinations, and miles.
Software and Tools
Apps and tools used to deliver client work.
Tip: Include only business-use software.
Home Office Costs
A portion of household bills used for work.
Tip: Use simplified expenses if easier.
More expenses you can claim
Consultants Industry Insights
Essential information about working as a consultants in the UK
Average Hourly Rate
£50 – £200
Management consultants and specialists can exceed £1,500/day
Common Structure
limited company
Limited company provides credibility and tax efficiency at higher earnings
IR35 Considerations
May apply to this profession
IR35 rules may affect your tax status. Check your employment status carefully for each contract.
Required Certifications & Qualifications
When Do Consultants Earn Most?
Understanding seasonal demand helps you plan your income and expenses throughout the tax year.
Peak Demand Periods
Quieter Periods
Industry Insight
Demand tied to client budget cycles and strategic planning periods
Tax tip: During quieter periods, use the time to organise receipts, update your records, and plan for upcoming tax deadlines.
Tax Tips for Consultants
Specific tax considerations to maximise your deductions and stay compliant
Professional subscriptions are tax-deductible
Client entertainment is NOT deductible
Travel to client sites is deductible (temporary workplace rules)
Consider pension contributions for tax efficiency
These tips are based on UK tax rules for the 2024/25 tax year. For personalised advice, consult a qualified accountant.
How to File Your Tax Return
Follow these simple steps to complete your Self Assessment
Gather Your Documents
Collect income records, receipts, and expense statements
Enter Income & Expenses
Add your earnings and claim allowable expenses with our guided flow
Review Your Calculation
See exactly how much tax you owe with real-time calculations
Submit to HMRC
File your tax return directly to HMRC in minutes
Key Deadlines for 2024/25 Tax Year
Don't miss these important dates
5 April 2025
Tax Year Ends
Calculate your final income and expenses
5 October 2025
Register for Self Assessment
If this is your first year self-employed
31 January 2026
Online Filing Deadline
Submit your tax return and pay any tax owed
6 April 2026
MTD Starts (£50k+)
If your income exceeds £50,000, you must use MTD software
Late Filing Penalties
1 day late: £100 fixed penalty
3 months late: £10/day up to £900
6 months late: 5% of tax owed or £300 (whichever is higher)
12 months late: Additional 5% or £300
Plus interest on any tax paid late. Avoid these costs by filing early with QTax.
Frequently Asked Questions
Answers to common questions about tax returns for consultants
Do consultants need to register as self-employed?
If you provide services independently and invoice clients, you must register for Self Assessment.
Can I claim travel to clients?
Yes. Business travel to client sites is an allowable expense.
What is the tax return deadline?
Online Self Assessment is due by 31 January after the tax year ends.
Related Guides
Explore tax guides for similar professions
Ready to File Your Tax Return?
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