31 January 2018 tax deadline looms large

5th January 2018 Tax Nicola Roby

If you are intending to file a tax return online by 31 January 2018 and you haven’t already acted then you need to do so now.  Nicola Roby, Director at CHW, accountants in Bolton, explains.

Failure to file your self-assessment return by the 31 January deadline leaves you at risk of being hit with a fine.  The penalty is currently £100 if your tax return for the period 6 April 2016 to 5 April 2017 is up to three months late.

If you haven’t already registered on the HMRC website then beware – this can take a few weeks before you are up and running and able to submit your return.  Regardless of whether all your books and record are up to date and your figures are simply ready to be submitted, without the necessary log in details and passwords for the HMRC you will be unable to submit your return and it is too late to now file a paper return.

If you are not already signed up then you should do so immediately.  You will need your Unique Tax Reference (UTR) – this is what identifies you personally with HMRC for all things related to your personal tax obligations. It is 10 digits in length and is quoted on any correspondence you receive from HMRC.

Once you have registered for the digital service online you will need a code in order to log in to your account and HMRC will only send this out by post.  Therefore it is important that you sign up now to trigger your code being sent.

Whilst HMRC is consulting on plans to replace the current fine with a points based system which would take into account your filing history, this will certainly not be in place for the looming January 2018 deadline.

If you need help with your self-assessment tax return or for any other advice regarding your accounts contact Nicola Roby at CHW Accountants in Bolton on 01204 534031 or via our enquiry form.

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