HMRC reports that 298,905 individuals submitted their Self Assessment tax returns during the first week of the tax year. A record-breaking 737,891 returns were filed throughout April 2026, including 86,270 on Easter Monday, April 6.
Early filers who are due tax refunds receive payments faster. Myrtle Lloyd, HM Revenue and Customs’ Chief Customer Officer, stated: “For thousands of people, filing early and staying on top of their finances has become the norm. It takes the pressure off in January and means they can spend their time focusing on their business and doing things they love.”
Expected Filings and Refund Process
More than 12 million taxpayers are projected to submit their 2025-2026 returns by January 31, 2027. Overpaid taxes trigger refunds immediately after processing. Individuals can verify eligibility via the HMRC app, allowing time for accurate submissions that minimize errors and potential penalties.
Who Needs to File a Self-Assessment Return?
Taxpayers must file if, during the tax year (April 6 to April 5), they meet these criteria:
- Self-employed as a sole trader earning over £1,000 before reliefs.
- Partner in a business partnership.
- Liable for Capital Gains Tax on asset disposals.
- Subject to the High Income Child Benefit Charge without PAYE deductions.
- Off-payroll worker repaying a student or postgraduate loan.
- Received untaxed income, such as rental property earnings, tips, commissions, savings interest, investments, dividends, or foreign income.
