Almost one million people in the UK failed to submit their Self-Assessment tax return before the 31 January deadline and will now automatically receive a £100 penalty, according to HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC).
HMRC revealed that 27,456 people submitted their returns in the final hour before midnight, while more than 475,000 people filed on the last day alone, out of an estimated 11.5 million taxpayers required to complete a return.
HMRC extended helpline and webchat services over the weekend to support taxpayers, with the busiest online filing period recorded between 5pm and 6pm on Saturday.
Myrtle Lloyd, HMRC’s Chief Customer Officer, thanked those who met the deadline and advised anyone who missed it to submit their return as soon as possible to reduce further penalties and interest.
Who Needs to File a Self-Assessment Tax Return?
Many workers in the UK pay tax automatically through PAYE (Pay As You Earn). However, you may need to complete a Self-Assessment return if you:
- Are self-employed and earned over £1,000 in the tax year
- Earn income from renting out property or land
- Have multiple sources of income
- Earn above certain thresholds not fully taxed through PAYE
👉 Important update: Some people no longer need to file simply because they earn over £150,000 or because they pay the High Income Child Benefit Charge through PAYE.
If you are unsure, it is safer to check with HMRC or a qualified tax adviser.
Penalties for Missing the Deadline
If you miss the Self-Assessment deadline, the following penalties apply:
- £100 automatic fine – even if you owe no tax
- After 3 months: £10 per day, up to £900
- After 6 months: 5% of tax owed or £300 (whichever is higher)
- After 12 months: another 5% or £300 (whichever is higher)
Late Payment Charges
- 5% of unpaid tax after 30 days, 6 months, and 12 months
- Interest added daily on outstanding amounts
HMRC may waive penalties if you have a reasonable excuse, such as serious illness or unexpected personal emergencies.
If You Missed the Deadline – What To Do Now
- File your tax return immediately
- Pay what you can, even if it is not the full amount
- Set up a Time to Pay instalment plan with HMRC if needed
- You can still appeal the penalty, but experts advise paying the £100 first to avoid extra interest
Charlene Young, a senior adviser at AJ Bell, notes that paying the initial fine first protects you from interest if your appeal is unsuccessful.
Why This Matters for Nigerians in the UK
Failing to manage your taxes properly can affect your financial record, credit profile, and future visa or settlement applications. Staying compliant helps protect your long-term plans in the UK.
At Naija UK Connect, we share practical information to help Nigerians understand UK systems, avoid costly mistakes, and build stable lives.
Key Takeaway:
Even if you owe no tax, missing the Self-Assessment deadline automatically triggers a £100 fine. If you missed it, file now and take action quickly to limit further penalties.
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