If you work in the UK, you’ve probably heard of a P60, but not everyone knows exactly what it means or why it matters. In simple terms, your P60 form is a record of how much you earned and how much tax you paid in a tax year. It’s one of the most important documents you’ll receive from your employer, especially when you need to prove your income or claim tax refunds.
In this blog we’ll explain what is a P60 form, why you need it, what information it contains, and how to replace it if you lose it.
Table of Contents
What Is a P60
A P60 form is an official document issued by your employer at the end of each tax year. It summarises your total earnings and deductions, including income tax, National Insurance contributions, and any student loan or pension payments. Every employee who was working for a company on 5 April (the last day of the tax year) should receive a P60 by 31 May. The P60 shows how much tax you have paid under the Pay As You Earn (PAYE) system, and it helps confirm whether you have paid the right amount.
Why the P60 Form Is Important
Your P60 is not just a payslip. It’s a legal proof of your income and tax record. You might need it for:
- Tax refunds if you paid too much tax during the year
- Loan or mortgage applications to show your annual income
- Universal Credit or benefits claims
- Visa or residency applications
- Checking National Insurance contributions
Keeping your P60 safe is essential, as HMRC may request it for up to 22 months after the end of the tax year.
What Information Is on a P60
A typical UK P60 form includes:
- Your name and National Insurance number
- Your employer’s name and PAYE reference
- Total pay before tax for the year
- Total income tax deducted
- National Insurance contributions
- Statutory payments such as maternity or sick pay
- Any student loan deductions
- Final tax code for the year
This summary helps ensure that everything deducted from your pay was accurate.
When You Get a P60
You’ll receive your P60 every year if you’re employed on 5 April, which marks the end of the UK tax year.
Employers must provide it by 31 May either as a paper copy or electronically.
If you left your job before the end of the tax year, you will not receive a P60 from that employer. Instead, you’ll get a P45, which shows your earnings and tax up to the date you left.
What To Do If You Lose Your P60
If you lose your P60, don’t worry. You can:
- Ask your employer for a replacement copy
- Access it online if your company uses digital payslips
- Contact HMRC if your employer no longer exists or cannot provide it
Employers are required to keep PAYE records for at least three years, so they can issue a duplicate.
How a P60 Differs from Other Tax Forms
It’s common to confuse a P60, P45, and P11D, but each serves a different purpose.
| Form | Purpose | When You Receive It |
|---|---|---|
| P60 | Shows total earnings and tax paid in a full tax year | At the end of the tax year (by 31 May) |
| P45 | Issued when you leave a job | When employment ends |
| P11D | Lists any benefits or expenses paid by your employer | Annually if applicable |
Understanding these forms helps you stay on top of your tax records and avoid confusion.
How Long You Should Keep Your P60
You should keep your P60 for at least four years after the end of the tax year it covers. This can protect you if there are disputes with HMRC or if you need to verify your income later. Many employees now store P60s digitally, but keeping a printed copy is still a good idea for security and reference.
Common Issues With P60 Forms
While most employers issue P60s correctly, problems can happen. Common issues include:
- Incorrect personal details or tax code
- Missing student loan deductions
- Wrong National Insurance calculations
- Receiving no P60 despite being employed on 5 April
If you spot an error, contact your employer immediately. They can correct it and reissue an updated P60.
Why You Should Check Your P60 Each Year
Many people file their P60 away without reviewing it. However, checking your P60 can help you:
- Identify tax overpayments
- Spot errors in your salary or deductions
- Ensure your tax code matches your income situation
For example, if your tax code was wrong during the year, you might have overpaid tax and could claim a refund from HMRC.
Final Thoughts
Your P60 form is a vital part of your financial records. It confirms your annual income and ensures your taxes are correct. Whether you are applying for a mortgage, a visa, or checking your National Insurance record, your P60 will often be required. Always keep your P60 safe, double-check it each year, and request a replacement if you lose it. Understanding your P60 helps you stay financially organised and ensures your tax records are accurate.
If you’re unsure about your P60 or believe your tax deductions are incorrect, contact a qualified accountant for advice. We’ll help you review your documents and claim any refunds you may be owed.
FAQs
Do self-employed people get a P60?
No. Self-employed individuals do not get a P60. They report income through a Self Assessment tax return instead.
Can I use my P60 to claim a tax refund?
Yes. You can use your P60 to check if you’ve overpaid tax and submit a refund claim to HMRC.
Can I get a P60 if I have two jobs?
Yes, but each employer will issue a separate P60 for your earnings with them.
Is a P60 the same as a payslip?
No. A payslip shows your pay for one period, while a P60 summarises your income and deductions for the entire tax year.
Do I need to send my P60 to HMRC?
Not usually. HMRC already receives your PAYE data directly from your employer. However, you may need to send it when claiming benefits or loans.
Can my employer refuse to give me a P60?
No. All employers are legally required to provide one by 31 May if you were employed on 5 April.
