Tax Return for Translators
Complete your Self Assessment in 8 minutes. Claim all your allowable expenses and submit directly to HMRC.
- Track project income
- Software expense tracking
- CPD cost support
- MTD-ready for 2026
Example Tax Calculation
Based on typical translators earnings £35,000/year
*Illustrative example based on 2024/25 tax rates. Your actual tax depends on your specific circumstances.
Allowable Expenses for Translators
Claim these tax-deductible expenses to reduce your tax bill
CAT Tools and Software
SDL Trados, MemoQ, and other computer-assisted translation tools.
Tip: Annual subscriptions are fully deductible.
Reference Materials
Dictionaries, glossaries, and specialist reference books.
Tip: Keep receipts for all reference purchases.
Professional Memberships
ITI, CIOL, or other translation association fees.
Tip: Membership fees are deductible.
CPD and Training
Language courses, specialisation training, and conferences.
Tip: Keep certificates and receipts.
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 translators
Do translators need to register as self-employed?
If you work as a freelance translator and invoice clients, you must register for Self Assessment.
Can I claim CAT tools?
Yes. Translation software and tools are allowable business expenses.
What about reference books?
Dictionaries and specialist reference materials are deductible expenses.
Ready to File Your Tax Return?
Join thousands of UK translators who trust QTax for their Self Assessment