HMRC reports record number of online tax returns

A record number of tax returns were filed using HM Revenue & Customs’ (HMRC) online facility, according to figures published on February 1st. A total of 6,429,899 returns were submitted, an increase of 12% on last year’s total. Online returns also counted for 75% of all submissions.

As in previous years, many submissions were made in the week leading up to the deadline of January 31st. HMRC had issued repeated warnings that all submissions made after the deadline would be subject to a £100 penalty fee. A total of 384,638 returns were sent on January 29th, with 40,000 submissions made in the busy 16:00 to 17:00 window.

In recent years HMRC has been keen to increase uptake of its online facility, arguing it is easier and faster for taxpayers to receive money owed, in addition to keeping its own administrative costs down. The later deadline of January 31st also appeals to many taxpayers who would otherwise have to submit their paper returns much earlier, on October 31st.

The online facility was severely affected by computer issues in 2008, resulting in a day’s extension to the deadline after thousands of taxpayers were unable to file their return in time.

HMRC’s computer systems appeared more robust this year, with fewer problems reported and no extension to the deadline made. HMRC were reported to have worked closely with their IT supplier throughout January to ensure issues were corrected promptly.

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