Before you submit
- All filing checks are clear.
- The return is approved, and for accountants the client has approved it.
- A Government Gateway login is saved. See Government Gateway for Self Assessment.
- Payment is made, or a filing credit is available.
How to submit
- Open the filing deskOpen the return and choose File with HMRC.
- Check the HMRC loginThe desk shows which login is used: the client’s or the agent’s Government Gateway. Choose Change if it is wrong.
- Choose Submit to HMRCConfirm when asked: Submit return to HMRC live? This is a real filing.
- Wait for the replyYou see Submitting to HMRC… while the return is sent and HMRC replies.
- Keep your referenceOn Submission accepted, copy the HMRC reference and download the confirmation.
What each result means
| You see | What it means | What to do |
|---|---|---|
| Submission accepted | HMRC accepted the return | Keep the reference and downloads. Nothing more to do |
| HMRC has the return and is still checking it. This is not a rejection. | HMRC has not replied with a final answer yet | Come back later and choose Check with HMRC |
| HMRC did not accept this return… | HMRC rejected it | Read the reason, then unlock and resubmit |
| HMRC rejected the SOAP credentials… | HMRC did not accept the Government Gateway login | See error 1046 |
| Could not reach HMRC. Press Check with HMRC to try again. | A connection problem | Try Check with HMRC again |
If the send fails with an error before HMRC gives any reply, an accountant’s filing credit is restored.
What to download after filing
- Download HMRC confirmation: a letter confirming HMRC accepted the return.
- Download tax calculation: your calculation for the year.
- Download paper forms: a copy of the return in HMRC’s form layout.
- Accountants: the Tax letter and payment note to send to the client.
HMRC updates your online account once it processes the return, usually within a few days. You can then download your tax year overview.
Still stuck?
- Status still “checking” after a day? Choose Check with HMRC. If it says HMRC no longer has that submission, unlock and submit again.
- Submit button missing? Check the return is approved and paid, or that you have a filing credit.
- Not sure it arrived? If you see Submission accepted with an HMRC reference, HMRC has it.
Still not sorted? Contact us and tell us the page, the tax year and any message you see.
Questions answered
How do I know HMRC received my tax return?
The filing desk shows Submission accepted with an HMRC reference. You can also download an HMRC confirmation, and the return appears in your HMRC online account once processed.
What does “still checking” mean?
HMRC has the return but has not given a final answer yet. It is not a rejection. Use Check with HMRC to update the status.
Can I change my return after it is accepted?
Yes, by starting an amendment. The accepted figures are locked until you do.
What is the HMRC reference?
It is the reference for your submission. Keep it in case you need to contact HMRC about the return.
Does submitting pay my tax?
No. Submitting files the return. You pay the tax to HMRC separately by 31 January.
Official sources
These guides explain how HMRC's rules apply in Self Assessment Software. Check GOV.UK for your own circumstances.