HMRC has initiated communication with nearly 135,000 taxpayers who currently file their self-assessment tax returns on paper, informing them that in future, they must contact HMRC via phone to obtain a paper form ...
However, not all paper filers will be sent the letter. Individuals aged 70 or above who have never submitted digitally and visually impaired filers will continue to receive paper SA returns automatically.
Online self-assessment tax returns have a filing deadline of the 31st of January following the tax year's end. Paper returns usually need to be filed by the 31st of October after the tax year concludes. From the 6th of April 2023, the paper form for the self-assessment tax return will no longer be accessible on HMRC's website.
These measures are part of a broader initiative to shift taxpayers' interactions with HMRC to digital channels, as outlined in the Discussion document: Streamlining and Modernising HMRC's Income Tax Services through the Tax Administration Framework.
In January, HMRC piloted the use of SMS replies to manage inquiries from its phone helpline during the lead-up to the self-assessment deadline. Over the next two years, HMRC plans to decrease its reliance on high-volume letters and forms, transitioning more of these to digital delivery.
It's worth noting that as of the 6th of April 2023, employer benefit-in-kind return forms P11D and P11D(b) must be submitted online, so you can see the direction HMRC is going with all of its forms!
In the face of HMRCs dismal service levels post-pandemic, I can understand why submitting self-assessment tax returns online would be advantageous for many.
If you feel inspired to find out more about anything I've said here, do call me on 01908 774320 or leave a comment below and I'll be in touch as soon as I can.