Follow this topicTips for filing your self-assessment tax return at the last minute
It's online tax return deadline day but it's not too late to avoid a fine, even if you think you don't have all the information you need. Here are some top tips to help.
It's the end of January, which means it’s online self-assessment tax return deadline day. If you haven’t filed yours yet, you’re not alone.
If you don’t have an Activation PIN to use HMRC’s online tax return service, then you are in trouble and facing a fine, as it generally takes up to ten days for this to be sent out. But you should still apply for one now via the HMRC website and do your return as soon as you have it. That way you’ll at least limit the daily charges you have to pay for filing late.
If you can access the self-assessment service, then get it done as soon as you can today to avoid last-minute panics as the clock ticks down.
Here are some top tips from Tony Bernstein, tax partner at the chartered accountants HW Fisher & Company.
1. Don't have all your figures? Use (accurate) estimates
If you do not have exact figures, put in estimates. You must however make the estimates as accurate as possible, and flag up on the form that the figures are estimates and not exact. You will still need to supply exact figures later, but at least estimates will do for now.
2. Look for the best sources of information
Focus on the most relevant information. If you don't have a P60 form from your employer, your March payslip will have much of the same information. Earlier payslips can be ignored. Your bank statements can also tell you much of what you need to know – how much you paid in pension contributions, charitable donations and so on.
3. Remember interest payments
4. And don't forget dividends
Similarly you must declare the dividends you received from shares or similar investments. This rule applies whether you received the dividends as cash or they were reinvested. If you don't have a personalised dividend certificate, the fund manager or company will usually list the dividend paid per share on its website. You can multiply that by the current number of shares you own to work out the dividend you received.
5. Ask questions now
Finally, remember that the internet and the phone are your friends. If you can't find the relevant paper statements, you may be able to get the info you need over the phone or online.
Remember that you face an automatic £100 fine if you miss this evening's deadline.
If you need help, try the HMRC Self-Assessment Online Demonstrator or call the Self Assessment Helpline on 0845 900 0444 (note that it's only open until 8pm this evening). Bear in mind that the phone lines are going to be very busy today, so call sooner rather than later if you can, and you'll need your Unique Taxpayer Reference (UTR) number to hand.
Good luck!
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