HMRC urges UK taxpayers to file Self Assessment early

HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) is advising approximately 12 million Self Assessment customers to file their tax returns for the 2025 to 2026 tax year ahead of the 31 January 2027 deadline.

Filing early allows taxpayers to determine their liabilities sooner, manage budgeting more effectively, and receive refunds more quickly while avoiding potential penalties. For the 2025 to 2026 tax year, which covers the period from 6 April 2025 to 5 April 2026, the deadline for online returns and the payment of any tax owed is 11:59pm on 31 January 2027.

New taxpayers must first register to receive a Unique Taxpayer Reference (UTR) before filing. HMRC provides various support tools on the GOV.UK website, including digital assistants and guidance videos to assist with the process.