HM Revenue & Customs has issued an urgent warning to millions of taxpayers across the United Kingdom, stating that "time is running out" to file their Self Assessment tax returns. With just under a week remaining until the critical deadline on Saturday, January 31, officials are urging immediate action to avoid substantial financial penalties.
The Approaching Deadline and Current Filing Status
According to the latest figures from HMRC, approximately 8.6 million individuals have already successfully submitted their returns for the 2024 to 2025 tax year. However, this leaves a significant portion of taxpayers still needing to complete this essential financial obligation. Last year, more than 11.5 million customers met the deadline successfully, and HMRC aims to assist the estimated 3.3 million people who remain outstanding this year to achieve the same outcome.
Official Guidance from HMRC Leadership
Myrtle Lloyd, HMRC’s Chief Customer Officer, emphasised the importance of proactive filing. "Don’t leave it until deadline day," she advised. "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."
For those concerned about meeting their tax liabilities, Lloyd highlighted available support options. "If you’re worried about paying your tax bill, you may be able to set up a payment plan online – search ‘difficulties paying HMRC’ on GOV.UK," she explained, directing taxpayers to official resources for financial assistance.
Penalty Structure for Late Filings
HMRC has outlined a clear penalty framework for those who miss the January 31 deadline. The consequences begin immediately and escalate significantly over time:
- Initial Penalty: An automatic £100 fixed penalty applies to anyone missing the deadline, regardless of whether there is tax due or if payment is made on time.
- After Three Months: Additional daily penalties of £10 per day can accumulate, reaching a maximum of £900 over 90 days.
- After Six Months: A further penalty of 5% of the tax due or £300, whichever amount is greater, will be imposed.
- After Twelve Months: Another charge of 5% or £300, again whichever is greater, applies to outstanding returns.
Support Availability During Deadline Period
This year’s deadline presents a unique challenge as it falls on a Saturday. HMRC has adjusted its support services accordingly to assist taxpayers during this critical period:
- Phone Support: Customers requiring telephone assistance can contact HMRC’s helplines, which operate Monday to Friday from 8am to 6pm. These phone lines will close on Friday, January 30 and reopen on Monday, February 2 – after the deadline has passed.
- Weekend Assistance: On the actual deadline day of Saturday, January 31, HMRC will provide webchat support through its Online Services Helpdesk for those needing last-minute guidance.
Taxpayers are strongly encouraged to seek full phone support before Friday, January 30 to ensure they receive comprehensive assistance with any queries or technical issues. The combination of escalating penalties and limited support availability over the weekend underscores the importance of acting promptly to meet this crucial financial deadline.
