HMRC urges taxpayers to act now as the deadline approaches
With just over a week until the Self Assessment deadline, HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) is urging the 3.3 million people who haven’t yet filed their tax return to act now or face penalties.
The deadline for submitting your 2024 to 2025 Self Assessment tax return is 31 January 2026 – and anyone who misses it will face an automatic £100 fine, even if they have no tax to pay.
So far, 8.6 million people have already filed their returns, matching last year’s successful filing rate of more than 11.5 million customers who met the deadline.
Help Available Online
HMRC’s Myrtle Lloyd, Chief Customer Officer, said: “Don’t leave it until deadline day. Filing now will give you peace of mind that your tax return is completed and if you have tax to pay, you have a week to arrange payment.”
Taxpayers who haven’t started can find free help and support at GOV.UK, including guidance, webinars and YouTube videos. HMRC’s online services are available 24/7.
How to Pay
Once a return is submitted, the quickest way to pay any tax owed is via the free HMRC app, which takes less than a minute. A full list of payment options is available on GOV.UK.
If you’re struggling to pay your bill, you may be able to set up a payment plan online if you owe less than £30,000 – search ‘difficulties paying HMRC’ on GOV.UK.
Weekend Deadline Support
This year’s deadline falls on a Saturday. HMRC’s phone lines will be open Monday to Friday (8am-6pm) but will close on Friday 30 January and reopen on Monday 2 February – after the deadline. On Saturday 31 January, HMRC will offer webchat support through its Online Services Helpdesk.
Penalties for Missing the Deadline
- Initial penalty: £100 fixed charge (even if no tax is due)
- After 3 months: £10 per day, up to £900
- After 6 months: 5% of tax due or £300 (whichever is greater)
- After 12 months: Another 5% or £300 charge
Late payment penalties are charged at 5% of the tax unpaid at 30 days, 6 months and 12 months, plus interest.
HMRC will consider customers’ reasons for missing the deadline. Those with a reasonable excuse may avoid a penalty.
Scam Warning
HMRC reminds taxpayers to be alert to scams. HMRC will never ask for personal or financial information by text or email. Check HMRC scams advice on GOV.UK.
File Your Return Now
To file your Self Assessment tax return, visit www.gov.uk/self-assessment-tax-returns
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