HMRC issues self-assessment tax return advice

Date: 19th October 2009

HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC) has warned customers that they have "just days left" to make the paper deadline for self-assessment tax returns.

The taxation authority said that a "last-minute rush" was anticipated for the forms, which must be in by October 31st.

Those who miss the deadline were also advised that they still had three months to fill in an online tax return, which carries a deadline of late January.

HMRC also pointed out that taxpayers who file online enjoy a variety of further benefits over those who file via paper forms.

"Your tax is calculated automatically; you get an immediate online acknowledgement once you've filed; and it's processed faster, so any money you're owed is repaid more quickly," the organisation said.

People who miss either the paper or the online deadline are fined £100 by HMRC.

The recently-announced postal strikes, which are scheduled to take place on Thursday and Friday this week, are likely to lead to widespread mail delays.

This could result in some paper tax returns reaching HMRC after the deadline.