HMRC announced today (6 January 2022) that it is waiving late filing and late payment penalties for Self Assessment taxpayers for one month – giving them extra time, if needed, to complete their 2020-21 tax return and pay any tax due.
HMRC said it recognised the pressure faced this year by Self Assessment taxpayers and their agents. “COVID-19 is affecting the capacity of some agents and taxpayers to meet their obligations in time for the 31 January deadline.
“The penalty waivers give taxpayers who need it more time to complete and file their return online and pay the tax due without worrying about receiving a penalty.”
The deadline to file and pay is still 31 January 2022 but the penalty waivers mean that anyone who cannot file their return by the 31 January deadline will not receive a late filing penalty, provided they file online by 28 February.
Also anyone who cannot pay their Self Assessment tax by the 31 January deadline will not receive a late payment penalty if they pay their tax in full, or set up a Time to Pay arrangement, by 1 April.
Interest will be payable from 1 February, as usual, so HMRC is still encouraging taxpayers to file and pay on time, if possible.
Further information can be found here: https://www.gov.uk/government/news/hmrc-gives-self-assessment-taxpayers-more-time-to-ease-covid-19-pressures
If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact your usual Mitchell Charlesworth advisor.
