HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) is urging Self Assessment customers to start their returns now to reduce stress, as new research timed ahead of World Mental Health Day (10 October) shows more than a quarter of people feel anxious when financial or tax deadlines loom.

An HMRC-commissioned survey of over 5,200 customers found more than 26% report anxiety as deadlines approach. Last year, more than 24,000 people filed their returns on World Mental Health Day itself, and millions routinely submit well before January via GOV.UK.

The deadline to file online and pay any tax due for the 2025 to 2026 tax year is 31 January 2027. Customers who prefer to file on paper must do so by 31 October 2026. HMRC says getting started early allows time to gather records, use online guidance on GOV.UK and plan payments, helping to minimise pressure. Myrtle Lloyd, HMRC's Chief Customer Officer, said: "Self Assessment doesn't need to be overwhelming, by starting early you have time to prepare properly and complete your tax return in manageable bitesize chunks, which is always better. Whether you are gathering the information you need or have already made a start on your Self Assessment, there is plenty of help online. Go to GOV.UK to start today."

Practical steps include preparing records in advance, starting the form and saving progress to return later, taking time to ensure accuracy so you do not overpay, and budgeting for any bill — for example by choosing monthly instalments rather than a single lump sum.

Anyone unsure whether they must file for 2025 to 2026 can use the Self Assessment checker tool on GOV.UK, where they can also register or notify HMRC if they no longer need to complete a return.

Customers already signed up to Making Tax Digital for Income Tax still need to submit their Self Assessment return and pay any tax owed by 31 January 2027. Those with PAYE income who file online by 30 December can choose to have tax collected through their tax code.