Paper Self Assessment tax return deadline: 31 October

A paper tax return for the last tax year (6 April to 5 April) must reach HMRC by 11:59pm on 31 October. If you file online, you have until 31 January instead.

Deadline

Every year by 31 October

Last checked

Checked against the official source: 21 October 2026

What if you miss the deadline? A late return gets an initial £100 penalty, even if you have no tax to pay. If you have not posted it yet, you can still file online by 31 January without a penalty.

You can send your Self Assessment tax return on paper or online. The paper deadline is earlier: your return must reach HMRC by 11:59pm on 31 October after the end of the tax year. Most people file online, which gives you three more months.

How to do it

1. Decide whether to file on paper or online. Online filing has a later deadline and calculates your tax for you.
2. If you file on paper, get the SA100 form and any extra pages you need from GOV.UK.
3. Fill in your income, expenses and any reliefs for the tax year that ended on 5 April.
4. Post it early so it reaches HMRC by 31 October, and keep a copy.

Common questions

Is 31 October the deadline for all tax returns?

Only for paper returns. Online returns are due by 11:59pm on 31 January.

Is 31 October also the payment deadline?

No. You pay your tax by 31 January, however you file.

What is the penalty for a late paper return?

HMRC charges an initial £100 penalty. More penalties follow after 3, 6 and 12 months.

Official source: gov.uk (opens in a new tab)

This information is not legal or tax advice.