Paper filing date approaching fast
The standard filing date for a personal tax return is 31 January. However, if you submit paper returns you need to do it earlier. What is the paper filing date, and how can HMRC’s new videos help if you need to remove yourself from self-assessment?

Currently, the self-assessment system is mainly processed in arrears, i.e. returns and payments are due after the end of the tax year. Most taxpayers have a filing deadline of 31 January after the end of the relevant tax year, so have almost ten months to gather and report their information. However, if you complete a paper return you only get until 31 October. You therefore have less than two weeks to get the return to HMRC.
Before you do, you may want to review your circumstances to see if you still need to be in self-assessment at all. For example, if you have ceased a claim to child benefit due to the high income child benefit charge, or were self-employed but have ceased trading. HMRC has published two videos explaining how to withdraw online, one for self-employed and one for others.
Related Topics
-
HMRC to raid bank accounts for unpaid tax
HMRC is restarting the use of direct debt recovery for individuals and businesses who choose not to pay the tax they owe despite having the means to do so. Who’s in the firing line?
-
Mortgage interest: don’t miss out on unused relief!
You own a buy-to-let property and need to report your profits for 2024/25. You have a mortgage, but your calculations show that the tax reducer will exceed the rental profit. Will the excess go to waste?
-
When should you submit a protective claim to HMRC?
Your business has charged VAT on some sales but a recent tribunal decision has indicated that the goods are zero-rated according to the law. Should you submit a claim to HMRC for a rebate on your past sales?