Overview
- Online returns for the 2024–25 tax year must be filed by 11:59pm on 31 January 2026, with the option to pay via PAYE having required filing by 30 December 2025.
- Late filing triggers a £100 fine, then £10 per day up to £900 after three months, followed by 5% of tax due or £300 at six months, with a further 5% or £300 at 12 months.
- Under payments on account, some first-time self-employed may effectively pay 150% of last year's bill in January, with another 50% due in July.
- HMRC highlights support such as online Time to Pay arrangements after filing, the ability to reduce payments on account if income falls, and de‑registration in eligible cases including new options for paying HICBC through PAYE.
- HMRC reported more than 4,600 returns filed on Christmas Day and 37,435 between Christmas Eve and Boxing Day, while urging customers to watch for scams and never share login details.