By CEDIA - Wed, Jun 18, 2025 - Blog
According to HMRC, a significant number of individuals delay filing their Self Assessment tax returns until the final moment due to their hectic schedules. Although the deadline for the 2024/25 tax year is set for 31 January 2026, taxpayers are encouraged to file earlier.
HMRC announced that close to 300,000 individuals submitted their tax returns during the initial week of the new tax year. That is nearly 10 months before the deadline.
Yet, millions of others opt to delay filing until the deadline approaches. HMRC has found that this happens because people are unaware of the deadline. It can also be because of disorganization, fear of the process, or misunderstanding the benefits of filing early. Some people feel too busy and do not prioritize their taxes, while others simply put it off.
This year, HMRC is urging all taxpayers to simplify their lives by submitting their tax returns early. Besides reducing the anxiety associated with last-minute submissions, there are additional advantages to filing promptly:
Submitting a tax return by 30 December allows HMRC to automatically deduct the owed tax from salaries and pensions in the subsequent tax year. Discover if you qualify for this payment method. Get your tax refund faster: Taxpayers can learn sooner if they overpaid and if they will get a refund.
By finding out how much you owe sooner, you gain more time to budget and plan your payments. HMRC’s Budget Payment Plan helps people pay their next tax bill and make regular weekly or monthly Direct Debit payments. For more information search ‘pay weekly or monthly’ on GOV.UK. Or watch our video on YouTube
Early filing provides proof of income which may be needed for a mortgage, loan or to claim benefits.
Over 97% of taxpayers file online with ease at GOV.UK. Customer satisfaction for online filers is consistently around 80%. File your Self Assessment tax return online.
You can self-service online in many ways and easily reset your password if needed. You can also retrieve your tax code and National Insurance number. Download the HMRC app - GOV.UK.
HMRC helpline and webchat advisers are available to help taxpayers who need extra support. This year, HMRC is urging taxpayers to simplify their lives by submitting their returns early. By doing so, not only can you evade the anxiety of rushing at the last moment, but you also gain additional advantages.
For instance, if you file your tax return before December 30, HMRC can automatically deduct any taxes from your salary or pension in the next tax year. You can also ask a friend, relative or accountant to complete the tax return on your behalf. Find out more: Self Assessment tax returns: How to get help - GOV.UK.
Extra Support Service is available for those with health problems that may make it difficult to interact with HMRC online. For more information, go to GOV.UK and search ‘get help from HMRC if you need extra support'.
Contact HMRC as soon as possible if you no longer need to send a Self Assessment tax return. Failing to file on time may incur penalties. Find out more here: Stopping Self Assessment - YouTube
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