Mistakes to avoid on your tax return as Martin Lewis issues warning over delays
Mistakes to avoid on your tax return as Martin Lewis issues warning over delays
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The Money Saving Expert founder cautions against leaving it until the last moment - and over child benefit allowances. As the deadline for submitting a self-assessment tax return fast approaches, millions are remain at risk of breaking HMRC rules. Data from the tax authority showed that 3.8 million people still needed to do theirs with just a week to go – and those who forget to file face major penalties.
![[Millions of earners file their self-assessment tax returns to HMRC every year]](https://static.independent.co.uk/2025/01/26/14/iStock-1331965101.jpg)
The tax return is a way for HMRC to ensure those who don’t make tax contributions through regular wage deductions are still paying their fair share. Most people who make a living as a self-employed earner will need to fill one out. Money guru Martin Lewis has warned anyone who has not completed their self-assessment tax return to get it to HMRC as soon as possible.
![[Martin Lewis says filling out a self-assessment tax return ‘gets tougher’ closer to the deadline]](https://static.independent.co.uk/2025/01/08/15/Martin-Lewis.jpg)
Speaking on ITV’s The Martin Lewis Money Show before the deadline, the finance expert said: “Do not delay it. The phone lines get busier, it gets tougher, it gets more difficult if you have a problem. If you have a self-assessment tax return to do, get it done – it’ll make your life easier.”.
The first essential thing to know if whether you need to fill out a tax return or not. There are several other groups of people who need to file a self-assessment tax return. The HMRC says you may need to file one if you:. If any of this applies to you, you must fill out the return by 31 January 2025. There can be hefty financial penalties for failing to meet this deadline, which can reach over thousands of pounds if action is not taken.
