Can a P60 be Used Instead of a P45? UK Tax Forms Explained
If you’re changing jobs in the UK, you’ve probably heard about P45s and P60s. Many people wonder whether these forms are interchangeable. The short answer is no – you can’t use a P60 instead of a P45 when starting a new job.
Key Takeaways
Quick Takeaways
- A P60 cannot replace a P45 when starting a new job
- P45s are for leaving employment, P60s are annual summaries
- If you don’t have a P45, your new employer can use a starter checklist
- Keep both documents safe – you might need them for various financial applications
Knowing which form does what can save you from tax headaches and stop you paying more than you should.
What’s the Difference Between a P45 and P60?
A P45 is issued when you leave a job and shows the tax and National Insurance you’ve paid up to that point, while a P60 shows the tax you’ve paid on your salary for the entire tax year from 6 April to 5 April.
Here’s a simple comparison:
Feature | P45 | P60 |
When Issued | When you leave a job | End of tax year (5 April) |
Who Receives It | Employees leaving employment | Current employees on 5 April |
Time Period Covered | Employment start to leaving date | Full tax year (6 April – 5 April) |
Main Purpose | Transfer tax info to new employer | Annual tax summary |
Number of Parts | Four separate parts | Single document |
Why Can’t You Use a P60 Instead of a P45?
You cannot use a P60 instead of a P45 when starting a new job because a P60 covers past tax years, while your new employer needs details from your P45 from the current tax year to put you on the right tax code.
Your P60 simply doesn’t contain the right information for your new employer’s needs. The P45 tells your new employer:
- Your tax code when you left your previous job
- How much you’ve earned so far this tax year
- How much tax and National Insurance you’ve already paid
This information helps your new employer work out your correct tax code from day one, which means you won’t be put on an emergency tax code and end up paying too much tax.
What Happens If You Don’t Have a P45?
Don’t worry if you’ve lost your P45 or your previous employer didn’t give you one. You cannot get a replacement P45 from HMRC, but your new employer will give you a ‘starter checklist’ to fill in instead.
Your new employer will need to work out how much tax you should be paying if you don’t have a P45. They’ll ask you about:
- Other jobs you currently have
- Benefits you receive
- Whether you have a student loan
Your employer will use this information to set up your payroll correctly. You might be on an emergency tax code temporarily, but HMRC will usually sort this out within a few weeks. If you need help understanding your tax codes and emergency tax situations, Tax Care Accountants can review your payslips and ensure you’re not overpaying.
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When Do You Need Each Form?
You need your P45 when:
- Starting a new job during the tax year
- Claiming benefits
- Proving your employment dates
- Applying for a tax refund
You need your P60 when:
- Applying for a mortgage or loan
- Claiming tax credits
- Checking your annual tax position
- Filing a Self Assessment tax return
For more information about UK tax forms and requirements, visit the HMRC PAYE forms guidance or check the official P45 and P60 information page.
Need Help With Your Tax Affairs?
Managing your tax documents can feel overwhelming, especially when you’re changing jobs or running a business. At Tax Care Accountants, we help individuals and businesses stay on top of their tax obligations without the stress.
Whether you’re confused about which forms you need, dealing with emergency tax codes, or need help with your annual tax return, our team of qualified accountants can guide you through the process. We’ve helped hundreds of clients sort out tax issues quickly and efficiently.
Contact Tax Care Accountants today for expert advice on managing your P45s, P60s, and all your personal tax matters. We’ll make sure you’re paying the right amount of tax and claiming everything you’re entitled to.
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