Can I claim back tax for previous years if I forgot to register?
Yes, you can file past tax returns to claim missed expenses and refunds, but HMRC usually only lets you go back up to four years.
Last checked 17/10/2026.
Yes, you can file tax returns for previous years if you missed registering as a sole trader, but HMRC generally limits refunds and claims to the last four tax years. If you missed older years, you will not normally be able to get that money back.
What you need to do
- Contact HMRC to register for Self Assessment for the earliest tax year you missed.
- Gather your earnings statements from every platform you drove for during those years.
- Add up your allowable expenses, such as mileage or phone bills, for each specific tax year.
- Submit the past returns online or via paper forms as requested by HMRC.
Sources
Related
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Record keeping, and how long to keep it
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Business miles, commuting and the depot run
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