When the Self Assessment deadline rolls around, many people face the same question: should I do my own tax return or hire an accountant? If you’re self-employed, a landlord, or earning untaxed income, it’s a decision that could save you time, stress – and potentially money.
At Clayton Stirling & Co, we work with individuals and businesses across the UK, helping them navigate the UK tax system efficiently and accurately. In this post, we’ll walk you through the pros and cons of each option so you can decide what’s best for you.
Below are a few more blog post that you might find interesting:
Do I Need An Accountant If I Use Accounting Software?
National Insurance For Self-Employed Individuals In 2025
What Is a Tax Return?
A Self Assessment tax return is how you report your income to HMRC and pay any tax owed. You’ll need to complete one if you are:
- Self-employed
- A company director
- A landlord
- Earning income from abroad
- Earning over £100,000
- Or in other situations where PAYE doesn’t cover your full tax
Filing your return correctly and on time is important – the deadline for online submissions is 31 January each year.
Doing Your Own Tax Return: Pros & Cons
✅ Pros:
- Cost-saving: No professional fees
- Learning experience: Understand your finances better
- Full control: You handle everything yourself
⚠️ Cons:
- Time-consuming: Can take hours to gather records and understand forms
- Stressful: Especially if you’re not confident with numbers or HMRC terminology
- Risk of mistakes: Errors can lead to fines, overpayment, or underpayment
HMRC research shows that many people accidentally overpay or underpay tax when they file alone.
Using an Accountant: Pros & Cons
✅ Pros:
- Saves time: Focus on your work or business while your accountant handles the tax
- Expert knowledge: Accountants stay up to date with the latest tax rules and allowances
- Maximised savings: They may spot tax reliefs or deductions you’ve missed
- Peace of mind: Reduces risk of errors or penalties
⚠️ Cons:
- Professional fee: But often outweighed by the tax savings and time gained
At Clayton Stirling & Co, we offer transparent, fixed-fee pricing – so you’ll always know what you’re paying and what’s included.
When You Should Use an Accountant
While many people can file a simple return themselves, you should seriously consider hiring an accountant if:
- You’re self-employed or run a business
- You earn income from property
- You’ve made capital gains (e.g. selling shares or property)
- Your finances are more complex (e.g. multiple income sources)
- You’ve missed the deadline before and want to avoid penalties
- You simply want less stress!
We’ve helped countless clients across the UK file accurately and on time — with fewer headaches and better outcomes.
Let Clayton Stirling & Co Handle It
At Clayton Stirling & Co, we make tax season simple. Our friendly team of accountants can:
- File your return quickly and accurately
- Help you claim every allowable expense
- Advise you on how to reduce your future tax bills
- Give you year-round support — not just at tax time
Ready to Get Started?
If you’re wondering whether to file your tax return yourself or get professional help, let’s talk. At Clayton Stirling & Co, we offer free initial consultations, so you can get expert advice before making your decision.
