11.48 Million Filed Self Assessment on Time
HMRC confirms 11.48 million people met the 31 January deadline. Around 1 million missed it and now face penalties.
HMRC has released the final numbers from the 31 January 2026 Self Assessment deadline. 11.48 million people filed their tax returns on time — but around 1 million didn't.
If you missed the deadline, HMRC says file as soon as possible to minimise penalties.
Key Statistics
- 11.48 million filed by 31 January 2026
- 97.25% of returns submitted online
- 475,722 filed on the final day
- 27,456 filed in the last hour before midnight
If You Missed the Deadline
Late filing triggers an automatic £100 penalty, even if you owe no tax. Further penalties apply the longer you wait:
- After 3 months: £10 per day (up to £900)
- After 6 months: 5% of tax owed or £300 (whichever is greater)
- After 12 months: Additional 5% or £300
Interest is also charged on any unpaid tax from 1 February.
What to Do
- File now — the sooner you file, the lower your penalties
- Pay what you can — partial payment reduces interest charges
- Set up Time to Pay — if you can't pay in full, contact HMRC to arrange instalments
Information accurate as of 15 February 2026. Verify current details on GOV.UK.
Official Sources
- 11.48 million beat the Self Assessment deadline - GOV.UK
- Self Assessment tax returns - GOV.UK
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