HMRC Issues Urgent Reminder Ahead of Tax Deadline
HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) is urging Lanarkshire residents to act quickly ahead of the October 31 deadline for submitting paper self-assessment tax returns for the 2024/25 tax year. Anyone who fails to meet the deadline faces an automatic £100 fine, even if no tax is due.
The reminder, issued in partnership with Advice Direct Scotland, highlights that the paper submission deadline applies to income earned between April 6, 2024, and April 5, 2025. The extended online submission deadline remains January 31, 2026, but HMRC stresses that paper filers must act now to avoid penalties.
Late Filers Risk Escalating Fines and Interest Charges
Taxpayers who miss the October 31 cut-off face escalating penalties if their return remains unsubmitted. After three months, daily fines of £10 apply, up to a maximum of £900. Returns still outstanding after a year can incur an additional £600 fine and interest on any unpaid tax.
Recent figures reveal that fines for late tax returns cost Scots an estimated £5.5 million annually. In 2022/23 alone, around 20,000 taxpayers in Scotland were fined £100 for missing the paper deadline by a single day, and 8,000 faced higher penalties for continued delays.
Free Support Available via TaxAdvice.Scot
To help taxpayers avoid mistakes and missed deadlines, Advice Direct Scotland operates the free, HMRC-backed service TaxAdvice.Scot. Residents can call 0800 756 3381 or visit the website for free guidance on completing their self-assessment returns.
Andrew Bartlett, Chief Executive of Advice Direct Scotland, said:
“For those who still fill out a paper tax return, it’s vital not to miss this key end-of-October deadline. Our advisers can help anyone struggling with their forms, free of charge.”
He added that many people do not realise they can seek independent advice rather than contacting HMRC directly.
Who Needs to Complete a Self-Assessment Return?
HMRC requires individuals to complete a self-assessment tax return if they:
- Are self-employed as a sole trader earning over £1,000 in the tax year.
- Earn over £150,000 in total taxable income.
- Need to pay Capital Gains Tax or the High Income Child Benefit Charge.
- Receive untaxed income such as rent, dividends, or freelance earnings.
The form ensures that all income and deductions are accurately reported to HMRC, preventing underpayment or overpayment of tax.
Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
Tax experts say common filing errors include failing to declare additional income, using outdated forms, and missing the signature page on paper submissions. HMRC advises taxpayers to use the correct forms and allow postal delays, ensuring their return reaches the department before midnight on October 31.
Digital filers are encouraged to switch to the online system, which offers automated calculations, submission tracking, and faster refunds.
Broader Push for Tax Awareness and Compliance
The latest campaign forms part of HMRC’s broader effort to improve compliance and reduce costly late filings across the UK. As hybrid work and self-employment grow, millions of taxpayers are now responsible for managing their own returns making awareness and education essential.
In addition to individual filers, business owners can use TaxAdvice.Scot for free guidance on VAT registration, corporation tax, PAYE, and National Insurance issues.
How it can be solved with Pie
Pie is a UK-based fintech platform simplifying tax management and compliance. Designed for individuals, freelancers, and small businesses, Pie helps users track income, submit HMRC forms, and stay informed about key tax deadlines with smart automation tools.
