100 Days to Go: Time to Get Your Self-Assessment Sorted

The countdown is on - there are now just 100 days until the Self-Assessment deadline on 31st January 2026.

HMRC has confirmed that more than 3.5 million people have already submitted their tax return for the 2024–25 tax year, but millions more still need to file. If you’re one of them, it’s a good time to start. Filing early gives you extra breathing room to check details, spread payments and avoid last-minute stress.

Why file early?

Starting your tax return early doesn’t mean you have to finish it right away. You can begin, save your progress and return to it as often as needed before submitting. The big advantage is knowing how much tax you owe well before the 31st January deadline, giving you time to plan and budget.

Key updates for this year

Here are a few points to be aware of when preparing your 2024-25 return:

• Capital Gains Tax (CGT) – If you’ve sold assets such as shares after 30th October 2024, be aware that the CGT rates have changed. The system won’t automatically calculate the correct amount, so you may need to make a manual adjustment using HMRC’s CGT adjustment calculator on GOV.UK.

• High Income Child Benefit Charge (HICBC) – A new PAYE digital service means some Child Benefit claimants who were in Self-Assessment just to pay the charge can now opt out and have the charge collected through their tax code instead. Eligible customers can contact HMRC to de-register.

• Winter Fuel Payments – You don’t need to include your 2025 Winter Fuel Payment (or the Pension Age Winter Heating Payment in Scotland) on your 2024–25 tax return. These payments will be reported in next year’s return, due January 2027.

• Making Tax Digital (MTD) – From 6 April 2026, sole traders and landlords with turnover above £50,000 must use MTD for Income Tax. You’ll need to submit quarterly updates, so it’s worth signing up for HMRC’s pilot now to get familiar with the process.

Watch out for scams

This is also a peak time for tax-related scams. HMRC will never ask for login details, payment information or personal data via text or email. Always access your account directly through GOV.UK or the HMRC app, and never share your credentials with anyone - even a tax agent. You can find official scam-awareness advice on the HMRC website.

Paper or online?

If you’re filing a paper return, the deadline is 31st October 2025. Online filers have until 31st January 2026.

Get support if you need it

Whether you’re a sole trader, landlord or company director, completing your Self-Assessment accurately and on time is crucial. If you’d like support with your reporting obligations, Styles & Associates can help you stay organised and compliant.

To discuss how we can simplify your year-end reporting, get in touch - our team is committed to delivering dependable, efficient Self-Assessment solutions.

Source: HMRC