Key business dates for 2026

January

15: Get to Know Your Customers Day

One for the marketing calendar – this is held on the third Thursday of January, April, July and October.

This date is a prompt to chat with your customers and get to know them. You could hold an event, a competition or offer a discount, but the main aim is to connect with your consumers on a deeper level. You never know what you might learn!

31: Deadline for submitting online Self Assessments

If you need to complete a Self Assessment for the 2024/25 tax year, this is the last day to submit your tax return online.

You might need to pay Capital Gains Tax (CGT) if you've sold or disposed of business assets. Most gains are reported via Self Assessment, but you can also use HMRC’s ‘real-time’ CGT service to report gains sooner.

Even though you have until the end of January to do this, we recommend getting it done earlier to avoid unnecessary stress and reduce the risk of missing the deadline.

31: Deadline for first Self Assessment payments on account

Most people who submit Self Assessments need to make advance payments towards their Income Tax. Made twice a year, each payment is half of your previous year’s tax bill.

So on 31 January 2026, you’ll make a payment on account towards your 2025/26 Income Tax. The amount you pay will be 50% of your 2024/25 tax bill.

31: Deadline for Self Assessment balancing payments

As payments on account are based on your previous year’s taxes, your advance payments might not cover your full tax bill.

If you need to make up the difference for 2024/25, you’ll need to make a balancing payment by midnight on 31 January 2026.

February

9–15: National Apprenticeship Week

This week-long event highlights the exceptional work being done by employers and apprentices across the country. Whatever industry you’re in, there will be plenty of events and different ways to get involved.

And if you’re considering employing an apprentice, our guide offers lots of useful insights — from the different types of apprenticeships to the support that’s available to your business.

17: Chinese New Year

Chinese New Year 2026 ushers in the Year of the Horse — specifically, the Fire Horse. It begins on 17 February 2026 and runs through to 3 March 2026.

It's an important date in the calendar for your Chinese and Asian employees and colleagues, and can be a great way to celebrate diverse cultures among your team.

If it’s appropriate, consider running an event or a promotion, or decorating your place of business to honour your colleagues or customers who celebrate.

17: Random Act of Kindness Day

February can be a gloomy month, but there’s nothing like a random act of kindness to lift someone’s spirits.

Check out our list of ideas that could help you mark the occasion.

March

6: Employee Appreciation Day

On the first Friday of March, many employers around the world go the extra mile to celebrate the people who work for them.

There are so many ways to say thank you to your staff — from team lunches to an afternoon off. And for businesses on a tight budget, even small gestures can go a long way. Think personalised thank you cards or a meaningful shout-out on Slack.

8: International Women's Day

International Women’s Day is a day to recognise and celebrate the achievements of women across the globe. This year’s campaign theme is 'Give to Gain' and invites us all to embrace a mindset of generosity and collaboration.

When people, organisations and communities give generously, it isn’t about losing something. It’s about multiplying impact. The more we support women to thrive, the more we all rise.

18 (or around then): Spring Statement

Twice a year, the Treasury makes a budget statement to Parliament. The Spring Statement usually includes an update on the UK's economy and progress made since the Autumn Budget.

It's important to be aware of the Spring Statement as it may include key changes that could affect you or your business.

Please note: this date isn't set in stone until it's been confirmed by the Government. It took place on 26 March 2025, 13 March 2024, 15 March 2023 and 23 March 2022.

April

1: National Minimum Wage increase

Every UK business is legally required to pay its employees at least the National Minimum Wage. The rate you must pay someone depends on their age and whether they’re an apprentice, and these rates increase every year to reflect living costs.

The government has committed to increasing the minimum wage in 2026. From 1 April, the National Minimum Wage will be £12.71 an hour for workers over 21, and £10.85 an hour for workers aged between 18-20. Employees under 18 and those in apprenticeships will also see an increase to £8.00.

Remember — if you employ anyone, regardless of whether they’re full-time, part-time or temporary, you’re likely to need employers' liability insurance.

5: Deadline for registering for payrolling benefits

Payrolling is an alternative to reporting employee benefits using P11D forms. If you want to payroll your employees’ benefits, you must register with HMRC before the start of the tax year — so to payroll in 2026/27, you’ll need to register by 5 April 2026.

6: Start of the new tax year

The start of a new tax year often means changes to many different tax rates, thresholds and allowances.

This is a good time to get your documents and receipts from the last financial year organised and start thinking about upcoming reporting deadlines.

May

1: Renters’ Rights Act phase one implemented

From the first of the month, the Renters’ Rights Act will come into effect. This includes abolishing section 21 ‘no fault’ evictions, introducing Assured Periodic Tenancies in the private rented sector, banning rental bidding, plus many more changes.

Read all about the changes private landlords will need to know in our guide to the Renters’ Rights Act.

7: Local elections

Local and mayoral elections will take place for all 32 London borough councils, 32 metropolitan boroughs, 18 unitary authorities, six county councils, 50 district councils and six directly elected mayors in England.

On the same day, there will also be elections to the Senedd and the Scottish Parliament.

While general elections tend to steal the spotlight, local, mayoral, Senedd and Scottish Parliament elections often have a more immediate impact on small businesses. From business rates and local grants to planning rules, procurement opportunities and workforce support, the decisions made closer to home can shape the everyday realities of running a business.

11–17: Mental Health Awareness Week

Mental Health Awareness Week is a chance to shine a light on mental well-being and break down stigma.

For small businesses, it’s the perfect time to show support by fostering an open, supportive environment or introducing initiatives that prioritise good mental health.

A happier, healthier team can lead to greater productivity and a stronger workplace culture.

31: P60 deadline

A P60 summarises an employee’s total pay and deductions for the tax year. This is the deadline for issuing P60s for the 2025/26 tax year.

You’ll need to send one to anyone working for your business on 5 April 2026. If someone left the company before this date, they don’t need a P60 as you should have issued them a P45 instead.

If you run a limited company and pay yourself a salary, you’ll need to issue yourself a P60. You don’t need to issue yourself a P60 if you work as a sole trader.

June

1–30: Pride Month

Pride Month is a chance to celebrate the LGBTQ+ community and champion equality and inclusion. It’s a great opportunity for small businesses to show their support — whether by creating an inclusive workspace, joining local Pride events or sharing messages of allyship.

Check out our list of ideas that could help you mark the occasion in June and create a supportive workplace throughout the year.

21: Start of the summer sale period

While you can organise a sale any time you like, this is a good benchmark for when to start your summer sale.

The summer sale period traditionally starts on this date, as it gives retailers plenty of time to use discounts to clear out their stock and make room for autumn and winter products.

24–30: World Wellbeing Week

World Wellbeing Week spotlights the importance of physical, mental and emotional health.

For small businesses, it’s a chance to champion well-being by introducing initiatives like mindfulness sessions, flexible working, wellness workshops or even a running club.

Kickstart your research with our seven top tools for mental wellbeing.

28: Insurance Awareness Day

This is a good time to review your business insurance and check that your covers, limits and excess suit your current needs.

July

1–31: Independent retailer month

The whole of July is dedicated to celebrating the essential role of small, local businesses in shaping vibrant communities.

It’s the perfect time to showcase what makes your shop unique, connect with customers and highlight the value of shopping locally.

Whether through special promotions, community events or sharing your story, this month is a chance to strengthen relationships and support a thriving local economy.

6: Submit P11D/P11D(b) forms

A P11D form tells HMRC what expenses and benefits you've given your employees over the year, helping HMRC calculate how much tax and National Insurance are due.

If your business gave employees benefits in the 2024/25 tax year, you'll need to submit your forms by this date.

22: Deadline for paying Class 1A National Insurance contributions

After reporting expenses and benefits given to employees in 2024/25, you'll need to pay Class 1A National Insurance contributions on those benefits.

However you pay, you'll need to make sure you leave enough time for the money to reach HMRC — and if you want to pay by cheque, you'll need to post it early enough that it arrives before 19 July.

31: Deadline for second Self Assessment payments on account

You have until midnight to make your second advance payment towards your 2024/25 tax bill.

August

21: World Entrepreneurs Day

This is a chance to celebrate the creativity and resilience of all you small business owners!

It’s a great opportunity to reflect on your journey, connect with other entrepreneurs or show appreciation to your customers with special offers or events.

September

10–14: Pension Awareness Week

This week is a valuable reminder to prioritise your financial future. For small business owners, it’s a great time to review personal retirement plans and explore workplace pension options for employees.

Learn about the different types of pension schemes available in the UK in our helpful guide.

Need more insight into pensions for the self-employed? Check out this article on how pensions can be your secret weapon.

October

1–31: Black History Month

Celebrated every October, Black History Month honours the achievements and contributions of Black individuals throughout history.

For small businesses, it’s a chance to spotlight diversity, support Black-owned enterprises and educate teams on the importance of inclusion.

Consider putting on events, sharing resources and promoting allyship to strengthen your community ties and demonstrate your commitment to equality and representation.

1–31: Cyber-security Awareness Month

Almost every business is online, and Cyber-security Awareness Month serves as a vital reminder for small businesses to prioritise digital safety.

Use this month to review your security practices, train your team and implement measures like stronger passwords or software updates.

Our cyber-security guide for small businesses may provide some helpful tips and tricks. If you're looking for added protection against a range of digital risks, you might want to consider cyber insurance, too.

5: Deadline for registering for Self Assessments

You need to register for tax returns by 5 October in your business' second tax year. So if you set up a business between 6 April 2025 and 5 April 2026, you’ll need to register by 5 October 2026.

You can register by post, but it’s easier to do it online through your business tax account.

28 (or around then): Autumn Budget

The second of the Treasury’s budget statements to Parliament, the Autumn Budget sets out the Government's spending plans for the near future. It can include things like tax and business rate changes, spending cuts or inflation predictions.

Just like the Spring Statement, it's likely that the announced budgets and adjustments will affect you in one way or another, so it’s worth tuning in and following the news to find out what the Autumn Budget could mean for small businesses.

Please note: like the Spring Statement, the date for the Autumn Budget is open to change. It usually takes place at the end of October or the start of November.

31: Deadline for submitting paper Self Assessments

Although most businesses prefer to submit their tax returns online, you can do it by post. Keep in mind the earlier deadline — for the 2025/26 tax year, the cut-off date is October 31 2026.

November

27: Black Friday

Black Friday is one of the biggest days for retailers, with many businesses offering deals and discounts to kick off the Christmas shopping season.

While Black Friday was traditionally held in physical retail stores, it's become common for online retailers to get involved as well. Need some inspiration? Read our Black Friday retailers' guide.

28: Small Business Saturday

A day to celebrate small business success and encourage customers to support their community by shopping locally. You could mark the day by offering discounts, hosting an event or collaborating with other businesses in your area.

Find different tools, resources and ideas for getting involved on the Small Business Saturday UK website.

30: Cyber Monday

Held the Monday after Black Friday, Cyber Monday is usually a time for online retailers to offer discounts to their customers.

December

26: Boxing Day sales

Over the last few years, the post-Christmas sale period has been starting increasingly early — with many online brands launching their sales on Christmas Day or sooner.

But Boxing Day still remains a key date for in-person sales. UK shoppers spent an estimated £4.6 billion on Boxing Day 2024, despite footfall dropping.