There were 4,757 tax payers who filed their Self Assessment return on Christmas Day, according to HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC).
A day traditionally dominated by eating, drinking, and exchanging gifts saw a perhaps surprising number of customers also find time to go online and complete the filing their tax return for the 2022 to 2023 tax year, ahead of the 31st January 2024 deadline.
Over the three-day festive period, 25,769 customers submitted their tax return, an increase compared to the same period last year, with:
- Christmas Eve: 8,876 tax returns were filed. The peak time for filing was between 12:00 and 12:59, when 850 returns were received.
- Christmas Day: 4,757 tax returns were filed. The peak time for filing was between 12:00 and 12:59, when 402 returns were received.
- Boxing Day: 12,136 tax returns were filed. The peak time for filing was between 12:00 and 12:59, when 1,121 returns were received.
“Our Christmas Day filers proved that there is no time like the present to get started on Self Assessment, and with our online tool it can be a simple task that’s easy to fit around other festive commitments.
“There’s no need to delay, getting it done ahead of the 31st January deadline means less stress and longer to work out payment options. Get started today by searching ‘Self Assessment’ on GOV.UK.”
Tax payers can submit their tax return online, but they do not have to pay until 31st January 2024. However, those who file before 30th December 2023 may have the option of paying any tax owed through their PAYE tax code.
HMRC has a wide range of resources online including a series of video tutorials on YouTube, help and supporton, to support those completing their tax return.
They can also pay through the free and secure HMRC app. See a full list of ways to pay any tax owed.
If tax payers cannot pay in full by the deadline, they may be able to set up a Time to Pay arrangement online if the amount owed is less than £30,000. There is a new affordability assessment for customers to enter their income and spending to calculate disposable income and set up an affordable payment plan.
Filers need to be aware of the risk of falling victim to scams and should never share their HMRC login details with anyone – even a tax agent.
HMRC scams advice is available.
Self Assessment support from HMRC
During December and January, the HMRC helpline is supporting filers who have queries about Self Assessment payments, refunds and who need help completing their tax return. For all other queries they ask filers to go online where you’ll find guidance, videos and tools that will help.
HMRC has lots of information and support available online which includes:
- More information about Self Assessment
- HMRC’s digital assistant – the assistant will help you find information, and if you can’t find what you’re looking for you can ask to speak to an adviser. You can also access the digital assistant via the HMRC app.
- guidance notes and help sheets and YouTube videos provide a wealth of information if you’re stuck or confused.
- live webinars where you can ask questions or if you can’t join, you can watch recorded webinars on demand.
- technical support for HMRC online services for help signing into online services.
- email updates – sign up to HMRC email updates so you don’t miss out on the latest information on Self Assessment.
- if you need extra support to help your with Self Assessment you can contact a voluntary or community sector organisation who can provide you with help and advice, or you can get support directly from HMRC.
Include bank account details on tax returns to get any repayment due quickly and securely.
It is important that tax payers let HMRC know of any changes to their circumstances. They can use the HMRC app to update details including a new address or name. They can also let HMRC know if they’ve stopped being self-employed or need to change their business details.
PAYadvice.UK 28/12/2023