HMRC Halloween Reminder:

31 October Self Assessment Tax Return Deadline

HMRC has once again urged taxpayers not to miss the Halloween deadline for submitting Self Assessment tax returns. The department’s Chief Customer Officer, Myrtle Lloyd, reminded individuals and small businesses that filing early is the key to avoiding penalties and unnecessary stress during the busiest part of the tax season.

As we enter the heart of the tax season, HMRC has issued a clear call to action: submit your self-assessment return on time. For the 2024/25 tax year, that means your post of self assessment tax return must reach HMRC by 11.59pm on 31 October 2025.

The October Timeline You Can’t Ignore

“Now is the time to get started,” said Myrtle Lloyd. “Completing your return early means you’ll know how much tax you need to pay ahead of the deadline.”

First, if you’re new to self-assessment or you’ve never filed before, you must register by 5 October 2025 to receive your Unique Taxpayer Reference (UTR).

Second, once registered (or if you’re already registered), your self assessment tax return for income from 6 April 2024 to 5 April 2025 must reach HMRC office by 31 October 2025.

This is peak season for both you and HMRC — phone lines get busy, postal delays are more likely, and the margin for error narrows. Being organised now is far better than scrambling later.

Why It Matters

Self-assessment means exactly that: you assess, report and pay your tax. If you have untaxed income (self-employment, rental income, investments, a second job) or you’re asked to file, then the statutory responsibility is yours. Ignorance of the rules is not considered a valid excuse.

Missing the 31 Octoberdeadline triggers an immediate automatic penalty — even if you owe no tax.

Understanding Taxpayer Responsibility

Self Assessment means self-responsibility. It is your legal duty to report all taxable income correctly — from self-employment, rental property, dividends, or other sources. HMRC expects you to understand and apply the rules properly; misunderstanding them is not considered a reasonable excuse for errors. Although most taxpayers now file online (with a separate 31 January 2026 electronic deadline), the deadline remains critical for those who prefer traditional filing. Missing it can quickly snowball into escalating penalties.

Plan Ahead — Avoid the Rush

October marks the start of HMRC’s busiest period. Millions of returns arrive within days of the cut-off, slowing down responses and risking postal issues. Acting early avoids this pressure and allows time to correct any mistakes before submission.

Stay On Track with These Practical Tips

• Gather your records early (income, expenses, receipts).
• Register for self-assessment and obtain your UTR before 5 October if needed.
• Choose whether you’ll file by post (if eligible) by 31 October or online (by 31 January).
• Don’t wait until the last minute — HMRC urges taxpayers to start now so you know what you owe and avoid last-second issues.
• If at any point you realise the return will be late, get expert help. A professional can help you avoid errors, check your tax liability, and ensure you meet the statutory responsibilities.

Seek Accountant's Help for Your Tax Return

Given the October rush, it’s more important than ever to have reliable support. If you’re unsure about whether you need to file, how to report specific income types, or you want peace of mind your return is done correctly and on time — Elaga Accountancy can help.

We’ll handle your registration, confirm your UTR, prepare your return, and send it on your behalf so you’re compliant and penalty-free.

Don’t wait until the last minute and risk being caught out. Let us take the stress away — you’ll know your affairs are in order, and you’re meeting your legal duty to file and pay.

***Contact us to learn more.
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Source: HM Revenue & Customs, licensed under the Open Government Licence v3.0. From . https://www.gov.uk/government/news/570000-families-avoid-the-halloween-chills-by-using-tax-free-childcare. https://www.gov.uk/government/news/the-countdown-begins-self-assessment-deadline-is-100-days-away