Pension contributions as self-employed

Hello, I have recently become self-employed and I have started paying by direct debit into an old pension pot I had with a previous employer. I understand that I can claim tax relief on my pension contributions. However, I am unsure how and when this can be done. I have read online that the pension provider itself will claim tax relief back on my behalf. Is this correct? If only I can do it, when is the time to do so? In April, at the end of the tax year? Thank you, Paulo

Hi

If you are a higher rate tax payer then you can claim relief on the pension contributions when you submit your Self Assessment tax return after the tax year has ended. 

Thank you