HMRC has contacted self-assessment taxpayers, nudging them to get a head start on their returns for the recently concluded 2024/25 tax year. April 5, 2025, marked the end of the fiscal period, signalling that submissions are now open for those who need to file.

Although the cut-off point is January 31, 2026, HMRC urged people to skip the last-minute scramble as it contacted workers directly.

HMRC said in an email: “If you’ve already filed your Self Assessment tax return for 2024 to 2025 – or we’ve agreed you don’t need to file one – thank you. You don’t need to do anything else.”

But for those lagging behind, there’s some advice: “If you haven’t filed your return, you don’t have to wait until 31‌‌‌ January‌‌‌ 2026, you can do this anytime. This means you’ll avoid the last-minute rush as the deadline approaches.”

Filing sooner rather than later doesn’t just beat the crowd. It comes with perks like getting refunds promptly if you’re owed cash and gaining clarity on your tax dues, aiding in financial planning.