First tax return deadline on horizon

Date: 20th October 2008

The first self-assessment tax return deadline of the financial year is drawing ever closer.

For those planning on submitting a paper return with HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) you have until October 31st, or alternatively, January 31st next year if filing online.

This year marks the first time the department has used two deadlines, as previously all self-assessment tax returns had to be received by HMRC by the end of September.

A statement made earlier today by HMRC read: "If you file a paper tax return, and haven't filed yet, you need to get all the relevant information together now, such as your P60, self employment accounts, savings and investment records, and details of any untaxed income."

Those who fail to submit a paper return by October 31st and do not have access to the internet may apply for a mitigating circumstances form, which could spare them a penalty of £100.

Another major change this year is the appointment of Moira Stuart to front the department's advertising campaign, the former newsreader replaces historian Adam Hart-Davis.