17/02/2025
How long should you keep tax records 🕣
- Self-employed? Keep records five years after the 31 January filing deadline of the relevant tax year. Example: For your 2023-24 return (due 31 Jan 2025), keep records until 31 Jan 2030.
- Limited companies? Hold onto those records for six years after the end of the relevant financial year - or longer in certain cases, like late filings or HMRC investigations.
Record keeping for sole traders & partnerships
1️⃣ Choose your accounting method:
- Cash basis: Record income/expenses when cash moves (e.g., invoice paid).
- Traditional accounting: Record income/expenses when invoiced/billed.
2️⃣ What to keep:
Sales, expenses, VAT/PAYE records, personal income, grants, and more.
3️⃣ How to keep it:
Save receipts, invoices, and bank statements.
Use tools like accounting software to stay organised.
Pro tip: Lost records? Tell HMRC ASAP and
explain if figures are estimated.
Record keeping for limited companies:
1️⃣ Company records:
Track directors, shareholders, votes, loans, and more.
2️⃣ Accounting records:
Include income, spending, assets, stock, and tax figures.
3️⃣ Top tips:
- Hire a professional accountant if needed - they're worth the cost for peace of mind.
- Use software to manage records and stay compliant.
General tips for smooth record keeping
✨Keep personal and business bank accounts separate.
✨Reconcile your accounts monthly.
Set up a filing system that works for you (and stick to it!).
✨Good record keeping = less stress and more time for running your business.