65% rise in Self Assessment payments via the HMRC app

12th January 2026

Self Assessment customers reminded of payment options as deadline approaches.

Almost 340,000 Self Assessment filers have already paid their tax bill using the HMRC app.

It is quick and easy to pay via the HMRC app and set up payment reminders.

Taxpayers need to file their tax return and pay tax they owe by 31 January.

The number of people using the HMRC app to pay their Self Assessment tax bill has increased by nearly 65%. Almost 340,000 people have used the HMRC app to pay their Self Assessment tax since 6 April 2025, an increase of 132,788 people compared to the same period last year.

Self Assessment customers need to file their tax return online for the 2024 to 2025 tax year and pay any tax owed by 31 January 2026. HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) is encouraging those yet to start theirs, to go to GOV.UK and do it now. Anyone who misses the deadline could be subject to an automatic £100 penalty.

Filing tax returns ahead of the deadline means knowing how much tax to pay sooner. It is quick and easy to pay via the HMRC app and set up payment reminders to make sure the deadline isn't missed.

Myrtle Lloyd, HMRC's Chief Customer Officer, said:

The Self Assessment deadline is less than one month away, and thousands of people have already paid their tax bill via the HMRC app. It is quick and easy to do, and you can also see your payment history. Search ‘download the HMRC app’ on GOV.UK to access the app and make your Self Assessment payment.

People who are unable to pay any tax owed in full may be able to set up a Time To Pay arrangement, if they meet the eligibility criteria and they owe less than £30,000.

Alternative options include paying directly through a bank account, direct debit or paying online via GOV.UK. A full list of payment options can be found on GOV.UK.

HMRC expects more than 12 million tax returns to be filed by the deadline. Those who miss the deadline will be issued with a penalty:

an initial £100 fixed penalty, which applies even if there is no tax to pay, or if the tax due is paid on time
after 3 months, additional daily penalties of £10 per day, up to a maximum of £900
after 6 months, a further penalty of 5% of the tax due or £300, whichever is greater
after 12 months, another 5% or £300 charge, whichever is greater

There are also additional penalties for paying late of 5% of the tax unpaid at 30 days, 6 months and 12 months. If tax remains unpaid after the deadline, interest will also be charged on the amount owed, in addition to the penalties above.

For links to much more information and videos go to
https://www.gov.uk/government/news/65-rise-in-self-assessment-payments-via-the-hmrc-app