As the self-assessment deadline looms on 31 January, 5.7 million taxpayers are still yet to file their tax returns.

This figure closely mirrors the situation at the beginning of 2023, indicating a persistent procrastination trend.

Some taxpayers utilised their holiday break to address their tax obligations. According to HMRC, 23,724 taxpayers chose New Year's Day to file, surpassing the 17,571 individuals last January who stuck to their New Year resolution to submit their tax return last January.

On New Year's Eve, 25,593 taxpayers completed their returns, and surprisingly, 127 individuals opted to finalise theirs in the first moments of the New Year - between midnight and 12.59am.

The Christmas period also saw a considerable number of taxpayers and accountants submit their returns. HMRC disclosed that 25,769 returns were filed between Christmas Eve and Boxing Day.

Christmas Eve saw 8,876 filings, while 4,757 returns were submitted on Christmas Day, peaking at 402 returns filed between noon and 12.59 pm. Boxing Day recorded slightly higher activity, with 12,136 tax returns submitted. As the deadline approaches, the race is on for the 5.7m taxpayers yet to tackle their 2023 financial responsibilities.

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

"The clock is ticking for those customers yet to file their tax return. Don't put it off - kick start the new year by sorting your self-assessment."

Talk to us about your self-assessment return.