A third of tax returns outstanding a week before deadline - HMRC

As of today, around eight million people have filed their Self Assessment for 2016 to 2017.

HMRC said it is reminding customers that those who do send tax returns in late will receive a £100 penalty - even if no tax is owed - and the longer the delay, the greater the penalty.

Angela MacDonald, HMRC director general of customer services, said: “The seven day countdown to 31 January has now begun. Put a stop to that niggling feeling and do your Self Assessment now. Our helpful online services offers support and advice so you can complete your tax return quicker than you think!”

The deadline for sending 2016 to 2017 Self Assessment tax returns to HMRC, and paying any tax owed, is 31 January 2018.

Self Assessment customers can now also submit their return via their personal tax account, it takes five minutes to sign up for an account here.

Those who think that they will not be able to submit their tax return by 31 January have been asked to contact HMRC so they can assist.