According to HMRC, nearly 92,800 people spent part of their Christmas break completing their tax returns. With the self assessment deadline fast approaching, HMRC is urging those who have yet to file to avoid penalties by submitting on time.
Christmas Eve saw 23,731 returns submitted, with 1,108 people filing between 11 a.m. and midday. On Christmas Day, 4,409 people filed their returns, including 368 between 3 p.m. and 4 p.m., likely as many enjoyed their festive lunch.
Boxing Day remained busy, with 11,932 taxpayers opting to complete their forms and 1,108 filing between 4 p.m. and 5 p.m. Over the three days from Christmas Eve to Boxing Day, 40,072 returns were filed.
The trend continued into New Year’s Eve when 38,000 people took the opportunity to submit their tax returns. Between 11 p.m. and midnight, 310 last-minute filers rushed to beat the clock. On New Year’s Day, 24,800 individuals tackled their forms – possibly clearing their heads from the celebrations the night before.
In total, 52,800 returns were filed between 31 December and 1 January.
Last year, over 97% of tax returns were completed online by the 31 January self assessment deadline. With penalties in place for late submissions, HMRC encourages those yet to file to act now and avoid unnecessary charges.
Myrtle Lloyd, HMRC’s Director General for Customer Services said:
“We know completing your tax return isn’t the most exciting item on your New Year to-do list, but it’s important to file and pay on time to avoid penalties or being charged interest.
“The quickest and easiest way to complete your tax return and pay any tax owed is to use HMRC’s online services.”
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