Busting the myths about submitting a Self Assessment tax return

Every year, millions of people in the UK file a Self Assessment tax return, but misunderstandings about how the system works are still widespread. This year HMRC has issued new guidance busting common myths about Self Assessment tax returns, urging people not to wait until the 31 January deadline to file.

The facts are clear: you can file your return now, avoid last‑minute stress and, if you are due a refund, get your money more quickly. Early filing also gives certainty about what you owe so you can budget, set up a Budget Payment Plan, or use your return as proof of income for mortgages, loans or benefits.

HMRC also stresses that filing early does not mean paying early – the payment deadline remains 31 January following the end of the tax year, and there are options to spread the cost. It is your responsibility to check whether you need to file, even if HMRC has not been in touch, and failing to submit a required return can still lead to penalties, even where no tax is due.

The mythbuster reminds taxpayers that Self Assessment is not just for the fully self‑employed: people with a side income, certain untaxed income, foreign income, partnership income or those affected by the High Income Child Benefit Charge may all need to file. Returns can also be used to claim tax reliefs, job‑related expenses or refunds where too much tax has been paid.

Use HMRC’s online checker to see if you need to file, and then complete your return using HMRC’s digital services, which allows you to start, save and submit at a time that suits you.

Common questions answered:

How do I submit a Self Assessment tax return?

Use HMRC’s online service. You can start now, save your progress, and then finish it and submit it later.

Why should I file my Self Assessment tax return early?

Filing early gives you peace of mind, helps you avoid the last-minute January rush, and may result in a faster tax refund if you’re owed money. It also provides certainty about how much tax you owe, allowing you to budget and plan ahead with confidence. It also removes the risk of any late filing penalty if you were to miss the filing deadline.

What are the main reasons people leave filing until the last minute?

Common reasons include busy schedules, lack of awareness about deadlines, disorganisation, procrastination, anxiety about the process, and not realising the benefits of filing early.

How can filing early help me with budgeting?

By completing and filing your return early, you will then know if you have any further tax to pay before the 31 January payment deadline for that tax year. Knowing this  early helps you budget for that payment and also any Payments on Account you may have to pay for the next tax year.  You may want to use HMRC’s Budget Payment Plan where you put a chosen amount of monies aside each week or month, as advance payments  towards your tax bill. This can prevent you having to make one larger payment in one go.

Are there benefits to filing before December if I have PAYE income?

Yes. If you file before 30 December, HMRC may be able to collect your tax automatically from your wages or pension via PAYE, making payment easier: Find out if you are eligible to pay this way.

Can I use digital services to manage my Self Assessment?

Yes, over 97% of taxpayers file online. The GOV.UK online service allows you to submit or amend returns, view account balances, claim refunds, and manage your details securely and conveniently.

What support does HMRC offer if I need help?

You can get help online with Self Assessment .There is a lot of help available online including helpsheets, videos and the digital assistant.

What if I no longer need to file a Self Assessment return?

You should notify HMRC as soon as possible, before the filing deadline on 31 January. If HMRC agree no return is needed for a tax year, they will tell you and will update your tax records accordingly, to prevent any late filing penalty being issued. for that year . Information on how to do this is available on GOV.UK

Does Making Tax Digital for Income Tax impact Self Assessment?

HMRC is introducing Making Tax Digital for Income Tax in phases from April 2026. If MTD applies to you , then you still need to submit a Self Assessment tax return for the 2025 to 2026 tax year. You can check if  MTD applies to you and from what date, on GOV.UK.

Can someone else file my return for me?

Yes, you can appoint somebody to deal with your tax affairs on your behalf such as relatives, friends, or accredited accountants.

Where can I find more information or help with filing?

Visit GOV.UK or watch HMRC YouTube videos for information.