Tax Return Frenzy Hits Peak at 2pm with 200 Filing Online
It was a busy hour as more than 200 taxpayers hit ‘send’ on their Self Assessment forms between 2pm and 3pm. The annual tax return deadline looms large on 31 January 2021, but millions are getting ahead by filing early online – whenever it suits them.
Thousands Beat Christmas Deadline Rush
HMRC reveals thousands used the festive break to tackle their tax returns. From 24 to 26 December, a whopping 31,400 customers filed their 2019-2020 returns:
- Christmas Eve: 20,200 returns, peaking between 11am-12pm with 2,892 filings.
- Christmas Day: 2,700 tax returns, busiest from 2pm-3pm with 214 forms submitted.
- Boxing Day: 8,500 returns, peak time 3pm-4pm with 858 filings.
Spread The Cost with Payment Plans
Once returns are done and tax owed confirmed, customers can set up payment plans worth up to £30,000. HMRC’s Self-Serve Time to Pay lets filers arrange monthly direct debit payments online. But beware: interest kicks in from 1 February 2021 on any unpaid balance.
Stay Sharp: Watch Out for Scams!
HMRC warns about fake websites and phishing scams targeting tax filers. Always type www.gov.uk/hmrc directly to file securely and FREE. Beware of calls, emails, or texts claiming you’re owed money or owe tax – these could be scams.
Check GOV.UK for tips on spotting genuine HMRC contact.
Karl Khan, HMRC’s Interim Director General for Customer Services:
“Online Self Assessment means customers can do their tax returns anytime, day or night – even on Christmas Day if they want to. We’re here to help customers get their tax right, and there’s support available 24/7 like help sheets, webinars and YouTube videos. Search ‘Self Assessment’ on GOV.UK to find out more.”
