Record Number of Nearly 300,000 Tax Returns Filed in First Week of New Tax Year

• Thousands submitted their Self Assessment tax returns on 6 April 2025.
• Early filers eligible for tax refunds can receive payments sooner.
• Customers have the option to set up budget payment plans to spread their tax payments over time.

HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) has revealed that a record-breaking 299,419 individuals filed their tax returns within the first week of the new tax year, nearly 10 months ahead of the 31 January 2026 deadline.

Self Assessment taxpayers are able to submit returns for the 2024 to 2025 tax year starting from 6 April 2025, the opening day of the tax year, through until the deadline at the end of January next year.

The number of early filers between 6 and 12 April 2025 rose by 28,503 compared to 270,916 in the same week of 2020. On the first day alone, 57,815 returns were submitted despite it falling on a Sunday, slightly fewer than the 67,870 returns filed on Saturday, 6 April 2024.

HMRC encourages taxpayers to file early to gain clarity on their tax liabilities sooner, allowing for better planning of payments and avoiding last-minute stress in January.

Jade Milbourne, 34, co-owns a dog grooming salon offering services from teeth cleaning to grooming for breeds ranging from Chihuahuas to German Shepherds. Running her business for five years, Jade credits staying organised as the key to managing her tax returns effectively.

She shared:
“Filing early means I have plenty of time to manage my tax bill. I set aside money monthly from my wages and pay as soon as I can, but also have the flexibility to save more if needed. The more organised you are throughout the year, the less stressful completing your tax return becomes.”

Anyone unsure whether they need to submit a tax return for 2024 to 2025 can check their status using HMRC’s online tool. New Self Assessment users must register to obtain a Unique Taxpayer Reference.

Myrtle Lloyd, HMRC’s Director General for Customer Services, commented:
“Filing your tax return early frees you up to focus on growing your business and other interests, instead of worrying about deadlines. You can join thousands of others who have already completed their 2024 to 2025 returns by searching ‘Self Assessment’ on GOV.UK and getting started today.”

Early filing also aids financial management, as taxpayers can spread the cost of their tax bill throughout the year via budget payment plans, making weekly or monthly direct debit payments.

For those entitled to a refund, claims can be made immediately after the return is processed. Refunds and balances can be monitored via the HMRC app. Filing early also allows ample time to review and ensure accuracy, reducing errors and potential penalties.

HMRC provides updated guidance on early filing and tax payment assistance on GOV.UK.

You may need to complete a tax return and pay any tax due for 2024 to 2025 if you:

• Are newly self-employed with income exceeding £1,000
• Are self-employed earning under £1,000 but want to pay voluntary Class 2 National Insurance Contributions
• Have untaxed income over £2,500
• Rent out one or more properties
• Claim Child Benefit and either you or your partner’s income exceeds £60,000
• Are a partner in a business partnership
• Have savings and investment income above £10,000, including dividend income over £10,000
• Need to pay Capital Gains Tax on asset disposals exceeding the threshold

A comprehensive list of those required to complete a tax return is available on GOV.UK.

HMRC warns taxpayers to remain vigilant of phishing attempts via emails, phone calls, and texts aiming to steal personal information or money. Always verify communications by searching ‘HMRC phishing and scams’ on GOV.UK before sharing sensitive information. HMRC will never request your login details.

Case Study: How Organisation Eases Tax Return Stress

Jade Milbourne runs a dog grooming business with her partner, providing comprehensive care from grooming to teeth cleaning. Having managed the business for five years, she stresses the importance of organisation in managing tax returns.

Initially intimidated by her first Self Assessment, Jade now finds the process straightforward thanks to experience and thorough preparation.

She explained:
“I complete my tax return early, typically after our accountant submits the business books and I receive dividend confirmation. I keep digital records of payslips and other relevant documents. Staying organised throughout the year makes the whole process much less stressful.”