2025 UK Tax Calendar for Businesses: Key Dates + Financial Planning Tips

Staying on top of your tax obligations is crucial for avoiding penalties, protecting your cash flow, and keeping your business compliant. With changes in reporting deadlines and payment requirements, having a clear view of the 2025 UK tax calendar will help your business plan ahead.

In this guide, we’ve outlined the key business tax deadlines in 2025, including VAT, Corporation Tax, PAYE, and Self-Assessment, along with essential financial planning tips to help you stay prepared.

Key 2025 UK Tax Dates for Businesses

Here’s a breakdown of the most important tax dates UK businesses need to know in 2025. Note that deadlines falling on weekends or bank holidays are typically due the next working day.

VAT Deadlines (Quarterly & Annual)

Most VAT-registered businesses submit VAT returns every quarter. The typical deadline is one calendar month and 7 days after the end of your VAT period.

Example VAT quarters & due dates in 2025:

Annual VAT Return (Annual Accounting Scheme):

Due two months after your VAT year ends.

Corporation Tax Deadlines

• Payment Due: 9 months and 1 day after your accounting period ends.

• Return Filing (CT600): 12 months after the end of your accounting period.

Example:

If your year-end is 31 March 2025,

• Tax payment is due by 1 January 2026

• Return must be filed by 31 March 2026

PAYE and NI Deadlines

• Monthly PAYE/NI payments: Due by the 22nd of each month (if paid electronically), or the 19th (if by post).

• Quarterly PAYE (for smaller employers): 22nd of April, July, October, and January.

Important 2025 PAYE Deadlines:

• 6 April 2025: Start of new tax year

• 5 July 2025: Submit P11D & P11D(b) for benefits in kind

• 22 July 2025: Deadline to pay Class 1A NICs

Self-Assessment Deadlines (If Applicable)

For company directors or self-employed professionals:

• 31 January 2025: Deadline to file 2023/24 return & pay any tax owed

• 31 July 2025: Second payment on account due for 2024/25

Financial Planning Tips for 2025

Planning for tax deadlines is more than just compliance—it's a critical part of cash flow management. Here are some smart tips to prepare your business financially:

1. Create a 12-Month Tax Forecast

Know what’s due and when. Include:

• VAT liabilities

• PAYE and NI contributions

• Corporation Tax

• Self-assessment payments

Use your accounting software or work with your accountant to estimate and track liabilities monthly.

2. Set Aside a Tax Reserve Fund

Open a separate business savings account and move a percentage of your revenue into it each month. That way, you’re never scrambling when HMRC deadlines hit.

Pro tip: Aim to reserve at least 20-25% of net profits for tax.

3. Use a Digital Accounting Tool

In line with Making Tax Digital (MTD) requirements, ensure your business uses MTD-compliant software to file VAT and keep digital records.

Cloud-based tools like Xero, QuickBooks, or FreeAgent also make it easier to stay organised and set tax reminders.

4. Speak to HMRC Early If You’re Struggling

If you think you’ll miss a deadline, contact HMRC immediately to request a Time to Pay Arrangement. This can help you avoid penalties and spread the cost over several months.

5. Consider Short-Term Finance for Large Tax Bills

Big VAT or Corporation Tax bills can put pressure on working capital. In such cases, a VAT loan or Corporation Tax loan can help you spread payments without hurting cash flow.

These are short-term, unsecured loans specifically designed to cover tax liabilities and keep your business running smoothly.

Summary: Stay Ahead of the 2025 Tax Calendar

Planning ahead is the best way to avoid surprises, maintain good standing with HMRC, and reduce stress around key tax deadlines. Set calendar alerts, use digital tools, and work closely with your accountant or financial advisor.

Need Help Planning for Tax in 2025?

Our expert advisors can help you stay compliant, forecast tax liabilities, and access funding solutions to bridge cash flow gaps. Whether you’re a growing SME or an established business, we’re here to support your tax planning for 2025.

Get in touch today to prepare your business for a financially stress-free year.