It is that time of the year again when we are busy helping our clients to get all the paperwork in order ready to submit their tax returns. Most of our clients, especially those that use our bookkeeping service, generally get their tax return filed early.

This helps them with their tax planning and also allows them to relax and enjoy Christmas with their families.

Deadline for tax return 2018/2019

However, we always get lots of new enquiries during December and January, so we wanted to remind everyone of the critical deadlines. It is essential that if you want us to help you that we have plenty of time to process everything accurately and on time.

For the tax year which started on 6 April 2018 and ended on 5 April 2019 the online tax return must be submitted at the very latest by midnight on 31 January 2020.

Any tax that is due for the self-assessment 2018/19 must be paid by midnight on 31 January 2020 as well.

There is also an additional payment deadline of 31 July 2020. This is the ‘payment on accounts’ bill that needs to be made.

What happens if the tax return is not submitted on time?

If you submit your tax return late, you will incur a penalty of £100 if your tax return is up to 3 months late. If your tax return is more than three months, you will need to pay more and be charged interest on the late payments as well. Click on this link to find out how much you would need to pay - Estimate your penalty for late Self-Assessment tax returns and payments.

How can we help you?

If you are struggling with your tax return, then contact us, and we can help you get all the information together and submit your tax return on time. If you leave it too late, we may not be able to help, especially as we get into January.

If you know that you will be submitting your tax return late or if you can't pay your tax bill on 31 January 2020 it is worth contacting HMRC and speaking to them. We are happy to do this on your behalf. Contacting them early, especially with regards to making a payment can be very beneficial, and they may be able to put you onto a payment plan.

If you need any help with your tax return, please contact us.

You can call 01623 490 120 or email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..