Tax Return for Graphic Designers
Complete your Self Assessment in 8 minutes. Claim all your allowable expenses and submit directly to HMRC.
- Design software expense tracking
- Home office deductions
- Client invoice support
- MTD-ready for 2026
Example Tax Calculation
Based on typical graphic designers earnings £35,000/year
*Illustrative example based on 2024/25 tax rates. Your actual tax depends on your specific circumstances.
Allowable Expenses for Graphic Designers
Claim these tax-deductible expenses to reduce your tax bill
Design Software
Subscriptions for tools like Adobe, Figma, or other design software.
Tip: Include only business-use subscriptions.
Computer and Equipment
Laptops, monitors, tablets, and peripherals used for client work.
Tip: Keep receipts and note business use percentage.
Home Office Costs
A portion of your rent, utilities, and internet used for work.
Tip: Use HMRC simplified expenses or calculate actual use.
Stock Assets and Fonts
Paid fonts, stock photos, and asset libraries for projects.
Tip: Store invoices and license details.
More expenses you can claim
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 graphic designers
Do graphic designers need to register as self-employed?
Yes, if you freelance or invoice clients directly you must register for Self Assessment.
Can I claim software subscriptions?
Yes. Design software and asset libraries used for client work are allowable expenses.
What records should I keep?
Keep invoices, receipts, bank statements, and a record of all client income.
Related Guides
Explore tax guides for similar professions
Ready to File Your Tax Return?
Join thousands of UK graphic designers who trust QTax for their Self Assessment