With just days remaining, HMRC is reminding Self Assessment taxpayers of the crucial 10-digit reference needed to avoid automatic penalties. The alert comes as the online tax return deadline fast approaches.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
As the Self Assessment deadline of 31 January <\/strong>nears, millions across the UK are being urged to check they have the correct information to submit their tax return on time. A central requirement is the Unique Taxpayer Reference (UTR<\/strong>), a 10-digit number needed to complete the process online.<\/p>\n\n\n\n This warning comes during one of HMRC\u2019s busiest periods, with taxpayers scrambling to finalise returns for the 2024\u201325 financial year. An immediate \u00a3100<\/strong> fine is applied the moment the deadline is missed, regardless of whether tax is owed. With the volume of submissions increasing each day, HMRC is aiming to prevent avoidable penalties by encouraging users to use its official mobile app.<\/p>\n\n\n\n HMRC has issued a direct warning to taxpayers that they must have their 10-digit Unique Taxpayer Reference to complete a Self Assessment return before 31 January. According to HMRC, failing to submit a return on time results in a \u00a3100 penalty, with further fines imposed <\/strong>the longer a return remains overdue.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Three months late triggers an additional \u00a310 daily penalty, capped at \u00a3900. At six months, there is a further fine of either \u00a3300 or 5% of the tax due, whichever is greater. At twelve months, the same penalty is applied again. These penalties apply whether or not any tax is owed, highlighting the importance of filing regardless of financial situation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n10-Digit UTR Required to File before Looming Deadline<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n