Tax statements and financial history

[Timinuk]

Hello, I appreciate whether anyone with experience has an opinion on this...
From the guide to form AN

SELF-EMPLOYED APPLICANTS
If you do not pay tax through Pay As You Earn (PAYE) arrangements, we require
The most recent HM Revenue & Customs Self Assessment Statement of Account

I'm helping a friend through an application. He hasnt filed for 2013 -- 14 yet (the deadline is Jan 2015 after all). So at present the most recent statement of account would be 2012-13. Would you think it is better to get the more recent year filed and wait for that statement of account to come through for the application.

Also is there any grounds for disfavour if someone has been on the benefits system for the 5 years or is that not supposed to be an issue.

Many thanks

[Timinuk]

Any response to my earlier post would be appreciated. I'd also like to know if someone is self employed and below the threshold of paying tax and NI contributions, whether they are liable to be judged unfavourably, either in combination with any other 'good character' issues, or not. I'm sure many people have been in this position. I have come across mixed advice.
Many thanks