A tax on your earnings and other income, deducted through PAYE or paid via Self Assessment.
Income Tax is the main tax on your earnings in the UK. You have a Personal Allowance (the amount you can earn before tax is due), then pay tax at the basic, higher, or additional rate depending on your income band. Most employees pay Income Tax automatically through PAYE, while self-employed individuals pay via Self Assessment.
This definition is for informational purposes only and does not constitute tax, legal, or financial advice. Rules may change and outcomes depend on your circumstances.
These GOV.UK and HMRC sources provide the official context for this glossary entry. The definition is educational and does not determine your individual tax position.