Did you file your tax return over the festive period?

tiemadmin • 8 January 2026

HMRC’s figures show thousands of taxpayers are filing over the festive period, but leaving your return until late January risks penalties, stress and avoidable payment problems.

A new press release by HMRC has highlighted that 4,606 taxpayers took the time to file their tax return online on Christmas Day with a further 10,479 taxpayers completing their tax returns on Boxing Day. In total, 37,435 self-assessment returns were filed between 24 and 26 December and a further 54,053 returns between New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day. HMRC even joked that festive filing has, for some, become as much a Christmas tradition as watching the King’s Speech or avoiding the washing up!

HMRC’s Chief Customer Officer, said:

‘ Millions of customers have already completed their tax returns and can start 2026 with one less thing to worry about. For anyone yet to file, don’t leave it until the last minute. Filing now means you know exactly what you owe and have time to arrange payment. Search ‘Self-Assessment’ on GOV.UK to get started. ’

If you are filing online for the first time you should ensure that you register to use HMRC’s self-assessment online service as soon as possible. Once registered an activation code will be sent by mail. This process can take up to 10 working days. 

We would encourage our readers to complete their tax return as early as possible to avoid the last-minute stress as the 31 January 2026 filing date looms. If you miss the filing deadline then you will be charged a £100 fixed penalty (unless you have a reasonable excuse) which applies even if there is no tax to pay, or if the tax due is paid on time. There are further penalties for late tax returns still outstanding 3 months, 6 months and 12 months after the deadline. There are also additional penalties for paying late of 5% of the tax unpaid at 30 days, 6 months and 12 months.

< Older Post

Newer Post >

Budgeting and forecasting in a period of lower confidence

by tiemadmin • 9 February 2026
Many business owners are entering the new year with a sense of caution. Confidence across the UK business community has softened, driven by continued cost pressures, uncertainty over tax policy and The post Budgeting and forecasting in a period of lower confidence appeared first on Feldon Accountancy.

Business rates support and cash flow for hospitality businesses

by tiemadmin • 9 February 2026
Hospitality businesses continue to operate in a challenging environment. Rising wage costs, energy prices and supply chain pressures have all placed strain on margins. Against this backdrop, recent The post Business rates support and cash flow for hospitality businesses appeared first on Feldon Accountancy.

Eligibility for Business Asset Disposal Relief

by tiemadmin • 5 February 2026
Business Asset Disposal Relief (BADR) can significantly reduce the Capital Gains Tax due when selling a business or shares, but with higher rates coming from April 2026, timing and eligibility matter The post Eligibility for Business Asset Disposal Relief appeared first on Feldon Accountancy.