Early tax returns
If you want to file your 2007/08 tax return on paper, it will have to reach HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC) by 31 October 2008, although you will have until 31 January 2009 if you file online. This is part of HMRC’s move to encourage online filing.
If you file on paper by 31 October 2008, you can ask HMRC to collect an underpayment of up to £2,000 through PAYE during the 2009/10 tax year. HMRC will also calculate the tax in time for the balancing payment date of 31 January 2009. A calculation is automatically included as part of the online filing system.
Taxpayers who file their 2007/08 return online have until 30 December 2008 if they want an underpayment of up to £2,000 collected through PAYE. As well as allowing more time, online filing is simple and less likely to result in HMRC errors. If we have not filed a return for you online before, HMRC will send you an authorisation code, which you will need to give us as confirmation of your agreement.
Whatever you do, please do not leave everything to the last moment. You can send us information as soon as you receive it, such as your P60 and statements of investment income. This will also help us advise you throughout the year.