31 October 2026: Paper Self Assessment return
A paper tax return for 2025/26 must reach HMRC by 31 October 2026. Filing online gives you until 31 January 2027.
Is this you?
Anyone who files on paper rather than online. Most people file online; the paper deadline only matters if you do not.
The detail
The paper return covers the tax year to 5 April 2026. Sent after 31 October, it is late even though the online deadline is three months later.
What it costs
The same late-filing penalties as an online return: £100 straight away, then daily penalties after three months, and further penalties at six and twelve months. Source: gov.uk and Companies House guidance, checked September 2026.
Now
File online instead. It is quicker, HMRC calculates the tax for you, and the deadline is 31 January.
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