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For Tattoo Artists

Tax Return for Tattoo Artists

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

  • Track session income
  • Equipment expense tracking
  • Studio cost support
  • MTD-ready for 2026

Example Tax Calculation

Based on typical tattoo artists earnings £35,000/year

Gross Income£35,000
Expenses6,000
Taxable Profit£29,000
Income Tax£3,286
National Insurance£986

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

Allowable Expenses for Tattoo Artists

Claim these tax-deductible expenses to reduce your tax bill

Tattoo Equipment

Machines, needles, inks, and professional supplies.

Tip: Keep receipts for all equipment and supplies.

Studio Rental

Rent for studio space or booth rental.

Tip: Keep rental invoices or agreements.

Hygiene and Disposables

Gloves, barriers, sterilisation supplies, and disposables.

Tip: Track hygiene supplies separately.

Insurance

Public liability and professional indemnity insurance.

Tip: Insurance is fully deductible.

More expenses you can claim

Licensing and registration
Portfolio and photography
Phone and booking software
Accounting software fees
Training courses
Marketing and website

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 tattoo artists

Do tattoo artists need to register as self-employed?

If you rent a booth or work independently, you must register for Self Assessment.

Can I claim equipment costs?

Yes. Tattoo machines, inks, and supplies are allowable expenses.

What about licensing fees?

Local authority licensing and registration fees are deductible.

Related Guides

Explore tax guides for similar professions

Ready to File Your Tax Return?

Join thousands of UK tattoo artists who trust QTax for their Self Assessment