Tax Return for Web Developers
Complete your Self Assessment in 8 minutes. Claim all your allowable expenses and submit directly to HMRC.
- Track client project income
- Software and hosting expenses
- Home office deductions
- MTD-ready for 2026
Example Tax Calculation
Based on typical web developers earnings £60,000/year
*Illustrative example based on 2024/25 tax rates. Your actual tax depends on your specific circumstances.
Allowable Expenses for Web Developers
Claim these tax-deductible expenses to reduce your tax bill
Development Software
Subscriptions for dev tools, design software, and hosting platforms.
Tip: Keep invoices for each service.
Hardware and Equipment
Laptops, monitors, and peripherals used for development work.
Tip: Claim the business-use portion.
Hosting and Domains
Hosting costs and domain registrations for client or portfolio sites.
Tip: Separate client reimbursed costs where needed.
Training and Certifications
Courses and certifications that maintain or improve skills.
Tip: Keep proof of attendance and receipts.
More expenses you can claim
Web Developers Industry Insights
Essential information about working as a web developers in the UK
Average Hourly Rate
£35 – £80
Full-stack and specialist developers (React, mobile) earn more
Common Structure
sole trader
Freelancers often start as sole traders; consider incorporating at £50k+ profit
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 Web Developers Earn Most?
Understanding seasonal demand helps you plan your income and expenses throughout the tax year.
Peak Demand Periods
Quieter Periods
Industry Insight
E-commerce clients need pre-Christmas development completed by October
Tax tip: During quieter periods, use the time to organise receipts, update your records, and plan for upcoming tax deadlines.
Tax Tips for Web Developers
Specific tax considerations to maximise your deductions and stay compliant
Software subscriptions (Adobe, hosting, domains) are deductible
Computer equipment is deductible via capital allowances
Home office costs can use simplified expenses method
Subcontractor payments must have valid invoices
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 web developers
Do web developers need to register as self-employed?
If you freelance or invoice clients directly, you must register for Self Assessment.
Can I claim hardware costs?
Yes. Hardware used for development work is an allowable expense.
What records should I keep?
Keep client invoices, receipts, and a record of all expenses.
Ready to File Your Tax Return?
Join thousands of UK web developers who trust QTax for their Self Assessment