Over 11.48 Million Filed Their Self Assessment Tax Return on Time - Did You? - MITLEV

February 9, 2026

Over 11.48 Million Filed Their Self Assessment Tax Return on Time – Did You?

HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) has confirmed that over 11.48 million people filed their Self-Assessment tax return by the 31 January deadline for the 2024–25 tax year.

While most taxpayers met the deadline, HMRC estimates that around 1 million people missed it, leaving them exposed to automatic penalties and interest charges.

If Self-Assessment feels stressful or confusing, you’re not alone — and leaving it late can be costly.

How Many People Filed at the Last Minute?

A significant number of taxpayers waited until deadline day to submit their return:

475,722 people filed on 31 January
27,456 filed in the final hour before midnight
The busiest hour was between 5pm and 6pm
HMRC helplines dealt with over 15,000 calls and webchats in one day

This last-minute rush increases the risk of errors, missed tax reliefs, and unnecessary penalties. Working with MITLEV Accountants allows clients to prepare early, submit accurately, and avoid deadline pressure altogether.

Missed the Self-Assessment Deadline?

If you missed the 31 January deadline, HMRC advises filing your return and paying any tax owed as soon as possible. Penalties start immediately and increase over time.

You can still:

File your tax return online via GOV.UK or via your accountant
Pay using the HMRC app or bank transfer
Apply for a Time to Pay arrangement if you cannot pay in full

If you’re unsure how much tax you owe, whether penalties apply, or if a payment plan is available, MITLEV Accountants can deal with HMRC on your behalf and help minimise the impact.

Self-Assessment Late Filing Penalties Explained

Even if no tax is due, late filing penalties still apply:

£100 fixed penalty immediately after the deadline
After 3 months: £10 per day, up to £900
After 6 months: 5% of tax due or £300 (whichever is higher)
After 12 months: a further 5% or £300

Late payment penalties also apply at 30 days, 6 months, and 12 months, plus interest on any unpaid tax.

These charges can add up quickly, particularly for sole traders, landlords, and company directors.

Self-Assessment Filing Statistics for 2026

12.03 million tax returns expected
11.49 million returns received by 31 January
97.25% filed online
316,000 paper returns submitted
Around 1 million people missed the deadline

HMRC has made it clear that digital tax reporting is now the standard — and more changes are coming.

Making Tax Digital for Income Tax Is Coming

From 6 April 2026, sole traders and landlords with qualifying income over £50,000 must comply with Making Tax Digital (MTD) for Income Tax.

This will require:

Digital record keeping
Quarterly submissions to HMRC
Ongoing tracking of income and expenses

Preparing early is key. MITLEV Accountants help clients get MTD-ready by setting up compliant systems, software, and processes well before the rules become mandatory.