Self Assessment

What is a P60 and Why Is It Important for Your Tax Filing?

What is a P60 and Why Is It Important for Your Tax Filing?

  • November 21, 2025

At the end of each tax year, employees across the UK receive an important document from their employer: the P60, also known as the End of Year Certificate. Although many people simply file it away, the P60 plays a crucial role in your tax affairs, personal finances, and various official applications. Understanding what it has and why you need it, can save you time, money, and unnecessary hassle.

What Is a P60?

A P60 is an official summary of your earnings and deductions for the tax year (6 April to 5 April). It is issued by your employer to anyone paid through the Pay as You Earn (PAYE) system and must be provided by 31 May.

Your P60 includes:

  • Your name and National Insurance number
  • Employer details and PAYE reference
  • Total pay for the year
  • Income tax deducted
  • National Insurance contributions
  • Statutory payments (e.g. maternity pay)
  • Student loan deductions, if applicable

It may be provided on paper or electronically. Self-employed individuals do not receive a P60.

Why a  P60 Is Important?

A P60 is vital for several reasons:

  1. Checking your tax is correct
    It shows exactly how much tax you’ve paid, allowing you to confirm that your tax code has been applied properly.
  2. Claiming tax refunds
    If you have overpaid tax, the information on your P60 enables you to give a claim to HMRC.
  3. Applying for loans or mortgages
    Lenders often request a P60 as proof of income.
  4. Accessing benefits
    You may need it when applying for government benefits, such as Universal Credit or tax credits.
  5. Personal financial records
    Your P60 is a clear, official record of your yearly income, useful for your own records and future reference.

Why a P60 Matters for Your Self-Assessment Tax Return?

If you complete a Self-Assessment tax return, your P60 is one of the key documents needed. It ensures:

Accurate reporting
A P60 provides the official figures for your employment income and the tax deducted, helping you to avoid errors on your return.

Correct tax calculation
When combined with any added income, such as rental earnings or dividends, it helps you and HMRC decide whether you owe more tax or are due a refund.

How to Obtain or Correct Your P60?

Your employer must issue it to you by 31 May. If you haven’t received it, or if there is an error on it, ask your employer to provide or amend it. HMRC cannot issue replacements, only your employer can.

You can also view similar pay and tax information through your personal tax account on GOV.UK, but this does not replace the official P60.

Your P60 is far more than an annual form, it is an essential document for confirming your income, checking your tax position, and completing your Self-Assessment tax return. Keep it safe, review it carefully, and use it whenever you need reliable proof of your earnings and tax for the year.

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