Rise in tax return payments made through HMRC app

The number of people choosing to pay their tax return through the HMRC app has increased by 65% compared to last year.

And, with just 10 days to go until the self-assessment deadline, taxpayers are being reminded that paying via the app is a quick and easy option.

Data shows that almost 340,000 people have used the HMRC app to pay their self-assessment tax since 6 April 2025, an increase of 132,788 people compared to the same period last year.

Self-assessment tax return deadline looming

If you still need to file yours, you have until the 31^st of January to do so, which is just 10 days away. Those who miss the deadline will face penalties:

• an initial £100 fixed penalty, which applies even if there is no tax to pay, or if the tax due is paid on time
• after 3 months, additional daily penalties of £10 per day, up to a maximum of £900
• after 6 months, a further penalty of 5% of the tax due or £300, whichever is greater
• after 12 months, another 5% or £300 charge, whichever is greater

There are also additional penalties for paying late, of 5% of the tax unpaid at 30 days, 6 months and 12 months. If tax remains unpaid after the deadline, interest will also be charged on the amount owed, in addition to the above penalties.

Spreading payments

For those who do not have the funds to pay the tax they owe in full, there is the option to set up a payment plan to help spread the costs.

The Time to Pay arrangement can be set up online, and for those with bills of up to £30,000, this can be set up without even needing to contact HMRC.

However, this payment plan cannot be set up until a self-assessment tax return has been filed, so to avoid late payment penalties, it’s best to file as soon as possible.

To find out more about contracting, please contact Jaime on 01442 795 100 or email jaime.thorpe@dolanaccountancy.com.