HMRC is urging people to start their 2025 to 2026 Self Assessment tax return now rather than leaving it to the last minute. In a press release on 10 November 2026, it said about 12 million people are expected to file each year and around 5 million often leave it until January. The deadline to file online and pay any tax owed is 31 January 2027. HMRC stresses that filing early doesn't mean paying early: you can send your return now and pay nearer the deadline. People on PAYE who file online before 30 December may be able to have tax owed collected through their tax code. HMRC also reminded people signed up to Making Tax Digital for Income Tax that they must still send a 2025 to 2026 Self Assessment return in the usual way and pay by 31 January 2027. A survey HMRC commissioned of more than 5,200 people found only 35% felt confident keeping on top of their financial admin.