More people across the Highlands and Scotland are using the HMRC app to pay their Self Assessment tax bills, as the 31st of January deadline approaches.
New figures show a sharp rise in digital payments, with almost 340,000 people already paying their Self Assessment bill through the app since 6 April, an increase of nearly 65% compared to the same period last year.
That rise reflects a growing shift among self employed workers, freelancers and small business owners, groups that make up a significant part of the Highland economy.
From tradespeople and tourism operators to creatives, contractors and crofters, many people in the north rely on Self Assessment rather than PAYE.
HMRC says all Self Assessment customers must file their online return for the 2024 to 2025 tax year and pay any tax owed by 31 January 2026 to avoid penalties.
Anyone who misses the deadline faces an automatic £100 fine, even if no tax is owed.
Filing earlier allows people to see exactly how much they owe sooner and plan for payment, something HMRC says is easier through the app.
Myrtle Lloyd, HMRC’s Chief Customer Officer, said:
“The Self Assessment deadline is less than one month away, and thousands of people have already paid their tax bill via the HMRC app.
“It is quick and easy to do, and you can also see your payment history.”
HMRC says the app allows users to make payments quickly, view previous payments, and set reminders to avoid missing the deadline.
For those unable to pay their bill in full, a Time To Pay arrangement may be available for people who owe less than £30,000 and meet the eligibility criteria.
Other payment options remain available, including bank transfer, direct debit and online payments through GOV.UK.
HMRC expects more than 12 million tax returns to be filed across the UK before the deadline.
Penalties increase the longer a return or payment is delayed, with daily fines added after three months and percentage based penalties applied at six and twelve months.
Late payment interest is also charged on unpaid tax.
HMRC says support is available online around the clock, including step by step guidance, videos, webinars and digital assistance, with most queries resolved without the need to call.
Phone support is available on weekdays, but lines close on Friday 30 January and reopen after the deadline, meaning anyone needing to speak to an adviser is encouraged to do so before then.
HMRC has also reminded people to stay alert to scams, warning that criminals often target Self Assessment customers at this time of year.
Taxpayers are advised never to share HMRC login details with anyone, including agents, and to use official GOV.UK guidance if unsure.
For Highland taxpayers juggling seasonal work, variable income and rising costs, the message from HMRC is simple, file early, pay on time, and use the tools available to avoid unnecessary penalties.
