When does the UK tax year end?

5 April. The new tax year runs 6 April to 5 April.

Why is year-end planning important?

Many allowances are use it or lose it - they cannot be carried forward.

What is the ISA deadline?

You must pay into your ISA by 5 April to use that years £20,000 allowance.

Can I carry forward pension allowance?

Yes, unused pension Annual Allowance carries forward 3 years (unique exception).

Does business year-end matter for tax?

Yes, it affects when profits are taxed, though the new tax year basis simplifies this.

General2026/27

What is Year-End? UK Definition 2026/27

Written by Waqas Sagar ACA, FCCA, FMAAT

•

Verified by ICAEW, ACCA & AAT

•Updated April 2026

Quick Answer

The end of the tax year (5 April) or accounting year - key deadline for tax planning.

Definition of Year-End

Year-end refers to either the tax year end (5 April) or a business accounting year end. The tax year end is crucial for using annual allowances (ISA, pension, CGT exemption, dividend allowance). These allowances cannot be carried forward if unused. Planning before year-end can save significant tax.

Year-End — Key Facts for 2026/27

Tax year end	5 April
ISA deadline	5 April
CGT year	6 April - 5 April
Company year	Chosen by business

How Year-End Works — Example

Year-end tax planning

1Before 5 April, review:
2ISA allowance: Use £20,000 if possible
3Pension contributions: Max tax relief
4Capital gains: Use £3,000 exemption
5Dividend allowance: Use £500 if beneficial
6All lost if not used by 5 April

How Year-End Affects Your Tax

Year-end planning is essential to maximise tax efficiency. Annual allowances that expire include ISA, pension annual allowance (for current year), CGT exemption, and dividend allowance. Forward planning avoids rushed decisions.

Official HMRC Guidance on Year-End

For official guidance, refer to HMRC's documentation. Tax rules can change, so always verify current rates and thresholds on gov.uk.

HMRC: Tax year deadlines

Frequently Asked Questions about Year-End

Related Tax Terms

Annual Allowance

The maximum amount you can save into pensions each year with tax relief.

Accuracy Note

This information is for guidance only and is based on 2026/27 tax year rates. Tax rules are complex and your circumstances may differ. For personal advice, consult a qualified accountant or tax adviser.