Earlier this month, HMRC have released some interesting tax return statistics:

• HMRC expects 12.1 million tax returns to be filed this year
• Around 55% have already filed their returns by the beginning of January
• 93% of these (6.2 million) were submitted online
• Almost 18,000 filed their tax returns on 1 January
• 5.4 million returns still to file, as at 4 January 2021
• 450,000 returns filed on paper (7% of total filed)

* These figures include a forecasted adjustment for create return charge and unsolicited returns.

Those who are yet to file a return are being urged to act now, as it may be a more time-consuming process than anticipated.

HMRC’s have said:

“In what was a very difficult year for many, we are grateful to the 55% of our customers who have already submitted their returns.

HMRC is ready to offer support to those who are yet to file their returns or are worried about paying their tax bill, but they must act now so we can help before the deadline.

Once customers have completed their tax return and know how much tax is owed, they can set up their own payment plan to help spread the cost of their tax liabilities, up to the value of £30,000. They can use the self-serve Time to Pay facility to set up monthly direct debits and this can all be done online. Interest will be applied to any outstanding balance from 1 February 2021.

If you want to check if you are eligible, click here.

Unsure if you need to declare or pay tax on ‘casual income?’ There is a new interactive guidance which is quick and easy to use and explains what individuals need to do if they receive non-PAYE income from:

• selling things, for example at car boot sales or auctions, or online
• doing casual jobs such as gardening, food delivery or babysitting
• charging other people for using your equipment or tools
• renting out property or part of their home, including for holidays (for example, through an agency or online)

Click here to check out the guide.

HMRC have warned customers to be aware of copycat HMRC websites and phishing scams. Customers should always type in the full online address www.gov.uk/hmrc to get the correct link for their Self Assessment tax return online securely and free of charge.

They also need to be alert if someone calls, emails or texts claiming to be from HMRC, saying that they can claim financial help, are due a tax refund or owe tax - it might be a scam. Our recent blog highlighted the scammers, to read our block click here or check how to recognise genuine HMRC contact here.