Record breaking 11.1 million customers filed Self Assessment

About 11.7 million customers were required to file their 2018/19 tax returns by 11.59pm on 31 January

A record breaking 11.1 million taxpayers made their contribution to the UK’s public services by hitting the 31 January deadline.

The number filing online soared to more than 10.4 million for the first time ever.

About 11.7 million customers were required to file their 2018/19 tax returns by 11.59pm on 31 January. More than 700,000 submitted their tax returns on deadline day and the peak hour for filing was between 4pm to 4:59pm when 56,969 filed.

Thousands of customers filed their tax returns at the last minute with 26,562 completing their returns from 11pm to 11.59pm on Friday 31 January.

Angela MacDonald, HMRC’s Director General for Customer Services, said: “It’s great to see that the majority of customers have submitted and paid their tax returns before 31 January.

“While few people enjoy the process it’s good to get it out the way and know you have contributed towards our vital public services.

“I’d like to thank everyone who filed and paid on time, but anyone yet to file or pay should contact HMRC straight away because we are here to help.”

Customers who have missed the deadline should contact HMRC. The department will treat those with genuine excuses leniently, as it focuses penalties on those who persistently fail to complete their tax returns and deliberate tax evaders. The excuse must be genuine and HMRC may ask for evidence.

The penalties for late tax returns are:

• An initial £100 fixed penalty, which applies even if there is no tax to pay, or if the tax due is paid on time;
• After three months, additional daily penalties of £10 per day may be charged, up to a maximum of £900;
• After six months, a further penalty of 5% of the tax due or £300, whichever is greater; and
• After 12 months, another 5% or £300 charge, whichever is greater.

There are also additional penalties for paying late of 5% of the tax unpaid at 30 days, six months and 12 months.