The Self Assesment extension and what it means to you?

*Please note the information in this article may be out of date

If you missed the 31st of January filling and payment date for your return, you may want to read this article.

Self Assessment deadline delay – could you still be charged?

Article by GoSimpleTax

You still needed to send HMRC your 2020/21 Self Assessment tax return and pay any tax owed by 31 January, but due to coronavirus they announced they will waive late filing/payment penalties for tax returns submitted before midnight on 28 February if you can’t.

Tax returns treated as being received late have the following downsides:
• Although there will be no penalties, interest will be payable from 1 February on any unpaid tax, so it’s better to pay on time if possible.
• You’re extending the enquiry window, potentially giving HMRC extra time to open an enquiry into your tax return.
• Benefit entitlement may be affected if you’re a Self-employed taxpayers paying Class 2 NIC’s who needs to claim certain contributory benefits if you’ve not paid your Balancing Payment by 31 January.
 
So, the deadline has been and gone - you have not yet completed your tax return, let alone paid it. GoSimpleTax suggest you complete your self-assessment to know your tax liability and at least pay what you owe as soon as you can. You do not have to submit it, however, if you have done it why wait?

I have filed, but I am struggling to pay

If you cannot pay as your income has been affected by coronavirus you may be able to pay your self-assessment tax bill via a payment plan. HMRC have an online application for Time to Pay. 

You can spread the cost of your latest self-assessment bill if
• You owe £30,000 or less
• You do not have ay other payment plans or debts with HMRC
• Your tax returns are up to day
• It is less than 60 days after the payment deadline

You can see if you are eligible and apply for a payment plan online, you do not need to phone HMRC. 

If you cannot access the online service or are not eligible you should call HMRC at your earliest convenience to discuss your situation. The self-assessment payment helpline is 0300 200 3822.

Think ahead for Making Tax Digital for Income Tax

With MTD for income tax over the horizon, it is mandated for 2024, begin converting to digital software. HMRC’s portal can be confusing - now is the perfect time to switch. 

Digital software allows you to calculate your tax liability in real time if you chose to use it from April 2022 and update your finances weekly, monthly or quarterly. You can be one step ahead, plan your finances and spend more time concentrating on your business. 

GoSimpleTax suggest submitting your 21/22 tax return on 6th April and then utilising software to stay up to date with your finances. Updating your tax return in real time. You will always be one step ahead and with the uncertainty of the pandemic it pays to be, as you are likely to be ready to claim any future help the government may offer. 

To conclude, if you are yet to file or pay your 20/21 tax return we advise you take action soon, whether that is to file and pay or to seek help from HMRC through the Time to Pay. Delaying is just putting off the inevitable – seek help if you need it. 

Our Favourite Tax App?
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ListenToTaxman have teamed up with GoSimpleTax, the online self-assessment app to bring you, what is in our view, the easiest way of calculating and submitting your tax return we’ve seen so far. Key in your income and expenses into the app, and it will flag up any unclaimed allowances. Simple.

Once you’re comfortable with the information you’ve entered, simply submit via the app to HMRC. You’ll just need your Tax Reference Number - found on most tax correspondence. GoSimpleTax let you use their software free for 14 days. If you don’t think it’s right for you - don’t pay anything. If you do to choose to submit your tax information via the app, then at most of you will be charged £49 for their service.

Find out More, No obligation trial, with no credit card required.