HMRC is encouraging taxpayers who file self-assessment returns to submit them before Christmas, giving them plenty of time before the deadline on 31 January 2023.

Self-assessment customers who miss the deadline risk incurring late payment penalties. However, those who file their returns before 30 December may be able to pay the tax owed through their PAYE tax code.

Furthermore, filing before the deadline will allow taxpayers to budget accordingly and explore the different payment options if they cannot pay their bill in time or in full.

According to HMRC, more than 2,800 self-assessment customers filed their returns on Christmas Day last year. Those who complete their returns earlier can "tick it off their to-do list" and enjoy the festivities.

Taxpayers should also be aware of the risk of scams, as criminals use the self-assessment season as an opportunity to commit fraud. Further guidance on how to avoid scams is available on the HMRC website.

Myrtle Lloyd, HMRC's director general for customer services, said:

"We are encouraging customers to plan their self-assessment as they'd plan for Christmas - get organised, complete their to-do list with plenty of time to avoid that last-minute rush."

Talk to us about your self-assessment returns.