At the end of every tax year, UK employees receive a summary of their total pay and tax deductions in the form of a P60. But what exactly is a P60 form, and why is it so important? Whether you’re an employee needing the form for personal records or a business responsible for issuing them, understanding the P60 is essential for tax compliance and financial planning.
What is a P60 Form?
A P60 is an official document issued by your employer that shows how much you’ve been paid and how much tax and National Insurance you’ve paid on those earnings during the tax year (6 April to 5 April the following year).
It applies only to employees who are still working for an employer at the end of the tax year.
Key Information Included on a P60
A P60 contains:
Total gross income from employment
Total Income Tax paid under PAYE
National Insurance contributions
Statutory payments (e.g. maternity/paternity pay)
Final tax code for the year
Employer’s PAYE reference and details
This document is vital for confirming how much tax you’ve paid and is often needed for various official purposes.
Why is a P60 Important?
Employees may need their P60 form for:
Applying for a mortgage or loan
Claiming back overpaid tax
Filing a Self-Assessment tax return
Providing income copyright or benefit applications
Keeping accurate personal tax records
Employers, on the other hand, are legally required to provide a P60 to every employee still on payroll by 31 May following the end of the tax year.
How to Get a P60
If you're employed:
Your employer must issue the P60 automatically if you’re on the payroll at the end of the tax year.
If you’ve lost your P60, ask your employer for a copy—they’re not obliged to reissue it, but most will help.
If you're an employer:
You must provide a P60 to each employee by the deadline.
This can be done digitally or in paper format.
Managing P60S and other year-end payroll responsibilities can be time-consuming. That’s why many businesses rely on Payroll Services Accountants to handle everything accurately and on time, ensuring full compliance with HMRC requirements. To know more information about P60S, visit our site.
What if You Have More Than One Job?
You’ll receive a separate P60 from each employer where you were still employed at the end of the tax year. These should be kept together when reviewing your full income and tax situation.
Final Thoughts
The P60 form is a critical part of the UK tax system, helping employees confirm their tax position and employers meet their HMRC obligations. Issuing and managing P60S accurately each year ensures smooth payroll operations and prevents future tax issues.