HMRC Issues Urgent 10-Day Warning Over £100 Self Assessment Fines
HM Revenue and Customs has issued a critical 10-day warning to UK taxpayers regarding potential £100 fines for missing the essential Self Assessment deadline on January 31. The tax authority is strongly encouraging individuals to utilise its official mobile application to submit their returns and avoid penalties.
Official HMRC App Usage Surges
HMRC reports a remarkable 65% increase in taxpayers using the official HMRC app to settle their tax bills this year. Current figures show that nearly 340,000 people have already utilised the mobile platform for payments, representing an increase of more than 130,000 compared to the same period last year.
Myrtle Lloyd, HMRC's Chief Customer Officer, emphasised: "The Self Assessment deadline is less than one month away, and thousands of people have already paid their tax bill via the HMRC app. It is quick and easy to do, and you can also see your payment history. Search 'download the HMRC app' on GOV.UK to access the app and make your Self Assessment payment."
Escalating Penalty Structure
Taxpayers who fail to submit their Self Assessment returns by the January 31 deadline face a structured penalty system that increases significantly over time:
- Immediate penalty: £100 fine for late submission
- After three months: Additional daily penalties of £10 per day, up to a maximum of £900
- After six months: Further penalty of five per cent of the tax due or £300, whichever is greater
- After twelve months: Another five per cent or £300 charge, whichever is greater
Late payment interest and additional percentage-based penalties also apply to those who file on time but fail to pay their bill by the deadline.
Support Services and Contact Information
HMRC has outlined comprehensive support options for taxpayers needing assistance with their Self Assessment submissions:
- 24/7 online support including YouTube videos, webinars, digital assistant, and step-by-step guidance
- Telephone support available Monday to Friday, 8am to 6pm until Friday 30 January
- Webchat support through the Online Services Helpdesk on Saturday 31 January
Phone lines will close on Friday 30 January and reopen on Monday 2 February, following the deadline. HMRC advises customers requiring full phone support to contact them before Friday 30 January.
The tax authority notes that most queries can be resolved through their online resources, which provide comprehensive guidance covering different sections of tax returns.
