HMRC issues warning to 5.65 million people as new January tax deadline looms | Personal Finance | Finance
HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) has warned that 5.65 million people still need to file their Self Assessment tax return, with less than a month remaining until the January 31 deadline. Despite millions yet to complete their return, thousands of taxpayers used the new year period to get their tax affairs in order.
HMRC figures show that 54,053 people filed their Self Assessment return for the 2024–2025 tax year on new year’s eve and new year’s day. Among them, 342 taxpayers submitted their return in the final hour of 2025, while 19,789 chose to file on new year’s day instead of taking part in more traditional festivities.
The busiest hour over the two days was between 11:00 and 11:59 on December 31, when 3,927 people completed their return.
In total, more than 6.36 million people have already submitted their Self Assessment, meaning millions are heading into 2026 with their tax affairs settled. However, HMRC is urging those who have not yet started to act quickly to avoid penalties.
Anyone who misses the January 31 deadline faces an automatic £100 late filing penalty, even if they have no tax to pay or if the tax due is paid on time.
Myrtle Lloyd, HMRC’s Chief Customer Officer, encouraged taxpayers to use the new year as motivation to act.
She said: “New year is a great time to start afresh. What better way than to ensure your tax affairs are in order for another year than completing your tax return. If you have yet to start, the clock is ticking, go to GOV.UK and start today.”
HMRC added that extensive online guidance and support is available on GOV.UK to help customers complete their return.
Taxpayers can start their return, save progress, and return to it as often as needed before submitting. While the return must be filed by January 31, payment does not have to be made immediately, provided it is paid by the deadline.
The HMRC app is promoted as the easiest way to pay, with optional notifications to remind users when payments are due. Information on alternative payment methods is also available online.
For those who are unable to meet the deadline, HMRC has urged customers to contact them before January 31. The department said it will treat people with reasonable excuses fairly.
Penalties increase the longer a return remains outstanding. After the initial £100 fine, daily penalties of £10 can apply after three months, up to £900.
After six months, a further penalty of 5% of the tax due, or £300 if higher, may be charged, with an additional 5% or £300 after 12 months. Separate penalties and interest also apply for late payment of tax.
HMRC also reminded parents paying the High Income Child Benefit Charge (HICBC) that they may be able to stop completing Self Assessment and instead pay through their tax code using the new PAYE digital service, provided they notify HMRC before the deadline.
Taxpayers were also warned to be vigilant against scams, as Self Assessment customers are at increased risk of being targeted by criminals.
HMRC stressed that customers should never share their login details and advised people to check GOV.UK for official scam guidance.
