A record-breaking 299,419 self-assessment tax returns were submitted in the first week of the 2025/26 tax year, according to HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC). The surge includes a remarkable 57,815 returns filed on 6 April alone — the very first day of the new tax year, which this year fell on a Sunday.
This figure marks a significant milestone in early tax return activity, although it slightly trails the 67,870 early filings recorded on the same date in 2024. Still, the overall tally for the week represents the highest number of tax returns ever filed within the first seven days of a new tax year.
HMRC has praised taxpayers who chose to submit their forms promptly, describing early filing as a smart move that allows individuals to better manage their finances. The tax authority is actively encouraging others to follow suit.
A spokesperson for HMRC said: “Filing early gives you certainty about what you owe and the time to plan how to pay. It also enables eligible taxpayers to receive any refunds they are due much sooner.”
The self-assessment window for the 2024/25 tax year officially opened on 6 April 2025, and individuals have until 31 January 2026 to submit online returns. Those opting for paper submissions must do so by the earlier deadline of 31 October 2025.
HMRC has reiterated the benefits of early filing, particularly in an era where many self-employed workers, landlords, and company directors are managing fluctuating incomes and rising costs. By filing early, taxpayers can make use of budget payment plans, which allow them to spread the cost of their tax bill with regular direct debit instalments — either weekly or monthly — helping them to avoid lump sum payments just before the deadline.
In cases where a person has overpaid tax, HMRC confirmed that refunds can be processed swiftly once a return is submitted. Taxpayers are encouraged to check the status of their refund through the official HMRC app, which continues to be upgraded for a smoother and more secure experience.
The department is also urging the public to remain vigilant against fraud, with criminals increasingly targeting taxpayers through fake emails, texts, and phone calls. One popular scam involves impersonating HMRC to offer bogus tax refunds.
The spokesperson added: “We will never send notifications by email or text about tax rebates or ask for personal or financial information in this way. Anyone who receives a suspicious message should report it to us immediately.”
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Last year, HMRC received nearly 1 million reports of suspicious contact, and the agency has warned that scams tend to spike around key tax deadlines and early filing periods.
Top tips for filing early:
- Gather all relevant income and expense documents before starting.
- Use the HMRC app or secure online portal to check deadlines and refund status.
- Consider setting up a Budget Payment Plan if you expect to owe tax.
- Double-check all entries before submitting to avoid delays or corrections.
- Be alert for scams — HMRC will never ask for bank details via text or email.
With an increasing number of people working flexibly or running side businesses, self-assessment continues to play a vital role in the UK’s tax system. And, judging by this year’s record early turnout, more individuals than ever are taking control of their tax affairs from day one.
For more information or to begin your return, visit gov.uk/self-assessment.
