Director information hub: Self Assessment for directors
Directors may need to complete an annual Self Assessment tax return.
Self Assessment tax returns
HMRC uses the Self Assessment system to collect Income Tax from individuals on income that is not taxed through PAYE, such as dividends, self-employment income or other sources of untaxed income.
Directors and Self Assessment
As a company director, you may need to complete and submit a Self Assessment tax return. This may apply if, for example:
- you receive dividends from the company
- you have any other untaxed income in addition to your director’s salary
If you are not sure whether you need to complete a Self Assessment tax return, you can check online .
It is important to make sure you pay the correct tax on any income, benefits or other payments received from the company.
If you do not submit a Self Assessment tax return when this is required, or you fail to pay any tax due, HMRC may charge interest and penalties. They can take further action to recover unpaid tax, including applying for your bankruptcy.
If you are made bankrupt, you cannot act as a company director without permission from Court.
If you need help completing your tax return or are struggling to pay your debts, you should seek independent professional advice.
For more information, see HMRC’s full guidance on Self Assessment.
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Updates to this page
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New content from the stakeholder - August 2026
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First published.