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For DJs

Tax Return for DJs

Complete your Self Assessment in 8 minutes. Claim all your allowable expenses and submit directly to HMRC.

  • Track gig income
  • Equipment expense tracking
  • Music licensing support
  • MTD-ready for 2026

Example Tax Calculation

Based on typical djs earnings £30,000/year

Gross Income£30,000
Expenses5,000
Taxable Profit£25,000
Income Tax£2,486
National Insurance£746

*Illustrative example based on 2024/25 tax rates. Your actual tax depends on your specific circumstances.

Allowable Expenses for DJs

Claim these tax-deductible expenses to reduce your tax bill

DJ Equipment

Decks, controllers, speakers, lighting, and cables.

Tip: Expensive equipment may qualify for capital allowances.

Music and Subscriptions

Music purchases, streaming subscriptions, and record pools.

Tip: Keep receipts for all music purchases.

Travel and Vehicle Costs

Mileage and travel costs to gigs and events.

Tip: Track all business journeys with dates.

Insurance

Public liability and equipment insurance.

Tip: Insurance is fully deductible.

More expenses you can claim

PPL and PRS licences
Equipment maintenance
Marketing and website
Phone and internet
Accounting software fees
Agent fees

How to File Your Tax Return

Follow these simple steps to complete your Self Assessment

1

Gather Your Documents

Collect income records, receipts, and expense statements

2

Enter Income & Expenses

Add your earnings and claim allowable expenses with our guided flow

3

Review Your Calculation

See exactly how much tax you owe with real-time calculations

4

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 djs

Do DJs need to register as self-employed?

If you work as a freelance DJ and invoice for gigs, you must register for Self Assessment.

Can I claim music purchases?

Yes. Music purchases and streaming subscriptions are allowable expenses.

What about PPL and PRS licences?

Music licensing fees are deductible business expenses.

Related Guides

Explore tax guides for similar professions

Ready to File Your Tax Return?

Join thousands of UK djs who trust QTax for their Self Assessment