HMRC: Thousands Of Tax Payers Will Soon Be Moved To Digital Filing
No more paper based self-assessment ...
Posted by Roger Eddowes on 17/04/2023 @ 8:00AM
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 ...
HMRC is pushing for the end to paper self-assessment tax returns!
This is because of its digital-first strategy, which means HMRC will no longer provide self-assessment tax return forms for download on the gov.uk website. Between the 23rd of March and the 4th of April, HMRC sent out letters which promoted online filing and offering guidance on how to proceed.
"To file a paper return, they must request the forms by phoning HMRC!"
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 self-assessment tax 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.
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!
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.
Until next time ...
ROGER EDDOWES Business Godparent
Would you like to know more?
If anything I've written in this blog post resonates with you and you'd like to discover more about sending your self-assessment tax return to HMRC digitally, it may be a great idea to call me on 01908 774320 and let's see how I can help.
Don't forget to stay updated with our daily social media posts on Facebook.
Roger trained at Edward Thomas Peirson & Sons in Market Harborough before working at Hartwell & Co, followed by Chancery, as a partner. He started Essendon Accounts and Tax with Helen Beaumont in 2014 as a general practitioner with a hands-on approach.
Roger loves getting his hands dirty, working with emerging, small-to-medium and family businesses to ensure they receive the best possible accountancy advice. Roger utilises an extensive network of business contacts to leverage the best guidance and practical solutions.
No unauthorised use, duplication, distribution or modification to any original content contained within this blog is permitted without prior written permission of the author. All other trademarks and registered names are acknowledged.
