HMRC is to stop sending blank copies of paper self-assessment returns, as part of its efforts to encourage taxpayers to file online and reduce unnecessary use of paper.
Last year, 94% of self-assessment taxpayers filed their returns online, while HMRC automatically sent out more than 500,000 returns. In a press release, HMRC said it ‘recently saw a 110% increase in customers registering to communicate digitally’.
From April 2020, instead of automatically receiving a paper return, taxpayers who have in the past filed on paper will now receive a short notice to file. Those wishing to file on paper will be able to download a blank version of the return or call HMRC to request one.
The notice to file will provide taxpayers with information about managing their tax affairs through their personal tax account and communicating with HMRC digitally by default.
Taxpayers whose personal circumstances mean they cannot file online will continue to receive a blank paper return.
HMRC is to stop sending blank copies of paper self-assessment returns, as part of its efforts to encourage taxpayers to file online and reduce unnecessary use of paper.
Last year, 94% of self-assessment taxpayers filed their returns online, while HMRC automatically sent out more than 500,000 returns. In a press release, HMRC said it ‘recently saw a 110% increase in customers registering to communicate digitally’.
From April 2020, instead of automatically receiving a paper return, taxpayers who have in the past filed on paper will now receive a short notice to file. Those wishing to file on paper will be able to download a blank version of the return or call HMRC to request one.
The notice to file will provide taxpayers with information about managing their tax affairs through their personal tax account and communicating with HMRC digitally by default.
Taxpayers whose personal circumstances mean they cannot file online will continue to receive a blank paper return.
