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Article by GoSimpleTax

For self-employed professionals, the festive season can be a bit of a juggling act. While friends and family might be winding down, you could be wrapping up projects, chasing that all-important invoice and thinking about closing your books for the year. What’s more, there’s often one task that’s left to the very last minute – filing your Self Assessment tax return.

Figures show the number of people who filed their return on deadline day in 2025 was 732,498. Thousands left submitting their return until the very last minute when 31,442 filed between 23:00 and 23:59.

If you’re one of those people, why not do it differently this year? In fact, you could enjoy a stress-free Christmas by filing early – and that’s not the only benefit.

Why Filing Early Makes Life Easier

The deadline for filing your Self Assessment online is 31 January. But waiting until the last minute comes with risks. For starters, HMRC’s systems are at their busiest in January and even the smallest mistakes or payment delays can result in penalties or interest charges.

Filing now means you can avoid that pressure and give yourself time to fix any issues before they become a problem. It also means you’ll know your tax bill months in advance so you have more time to plan your finances, set aside money and avoid the dreaded new year surprise.

If your bill is lower than expected, you can use that extra cash in your business. If it’s higher, you’ve got plenty of time to prepare.

A Calmer Christmas (and fresher start to 2026)

Just imagine, it’s mid-December, your return is filed, and your tax bill is budgeted for. You’re free to switch off your laptop and actually enjoy the festive season. No more half-hearted celebrations with HMRC deadlines looming over you.

Filing early means you can better prepare for the year ahead with finances that are organised from the get-go. What’s more, you’ll be in a better position to focus on growth and goals. Or simply just take a well-earned break without tax on your mind.

Spot Issues Before They Snowball

Filing ahead of time means you have more opportunity to spot any inconsistencies in your income or expenses – something that’s much harder when you’re in a rush. What’s more, you can gather missing receipts, double-check entries and make sure everything adds up.

If you work with an accountant, they’ll also appreciate the extra breathing room. Plus, they might have more availability before the madness of January hits.

Get Your Refunds Faster

Possibly one of the best reasons to start your tax return now is that if you’ve overpaid tax during the year, you’ll get your refund sooner. Why let HMRC hold onto your money until January when it could be back in your business in time for Christmas?

Start Early and Breathe Easy

January might feel far away but it always comes around fast. Filing now means less stress, more control and maybe even a more relaxing Christmas knowing your tax return is done and dusted. So, what are you waiting for? Make this the year you finally beat the January rush. Future you will be very thankful.

About GoSimpleTax

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