HMRC data published today has revealed that 40,072 people completed their tax return over the Christmas break with 4,409 submitting their returns on Christmas Day.

HMRC said the 40,000 were well ahead of the deadline for self assessment returns of 31 January.

Data published today by HMRC revealed:

• 11,932 taxpayers submitted their tax return on Boxing Day
• 23,731 filed on Christmas Eve with 11am to 11:59am the most popular time when 3,458 filed their tax returns
• 3pm-3.59pm was the most popular time to submit returns on Christmas Day.
• More than 97% of Self Assessment returns are filed online

Myrtle Lloyd, HMRC’s director general for customer services, said: “People who need to file a Self Assessment return and already have can enjoy the rest of the festive period knowing they’ve got it wrapped up for another year, and can enjoy singing Auld Lang Syne knowing their tax affairs are in order.

“For those who haven’t started yet, our online service is available 365 days a year so there’s still a chance to get it done before 2024 is out.”

Taxpayers who have submitted their tax return online have until the 31 January 2025 to pay the tax they owe. Those who file before 30 December may have the option of paying any tax owed through their PAYE tax code. 

HMRC say people may need to file a return if they are:

• newly self-employed and have earned gross income over £1,000
• earned below £1,000 and wish to pay Class 2 National Insurance Contributions voluntarily to protect their entitlement to State Pension and certain benefits
• are a new partner in a business partnership
• have received any untaxed income over £2,500
• receive Child Benefit payments and need to pay the High Income Child Benefit Charge because they or their partner earned more than £50,000.