As the 31 January Self Assessment deadline draws closer, hundreds of thousands of taxpayers across the UK are turning to their phones to settle their tax bills. Nearly 340,000 people have already paid what they owe using the HMRC app, marking a sharp rise in digital tax payments and signalling a shift in how people manage their finances.
For many in the Nigerian and wider diaspora community, Self Assessment can feel intimidating, especially for first-time filers, sole traders, landlords or those juggling multiple jobs. At Chijos News, we know that clear, practical information is crucial for communities that are building businesses, balancing family responsibilities and navigating the UK system at the same time.
A Growing Shift to Digital Tax Payments
HM Revenue and Customs has confirmed that 339,490 customers paid their Self Assessment tax bill through the HMRC app between 6 April 2025 and 4 January 2026. This represents an increase of nearly 65% compared with the same period the previous year, when just over 206,000 people used the app.
The appeal is simple. The HMRC app allows users to make quick payments, view their payment history and set reminders so deadlines are not missed. Filing earlier also means knowing exactly how much tax is owed, reducing last-minute stress as the deadline approaches.
What Taxpayers Need to Know
Anyone completing a Self Assessment tax return for the 2024 to 2025 tax year must file online and pay any tax owed by 31 January 2026. Missing the deadline triggers an automatic £100 penalty, even if no tax is due or if the tax is paid shortly afterwards. Additional penalties and interest can quickly build up the longer a return or payment is delayed.
HMRC expects more than 12 million tax returns to be filed by the deadline, and is urging anyone who has not yet started to act now through GOV.UK. For people managing work, family and side hustles, leaving it late can turn a routine task into an unnecessary financial headache.
Support for Those Who Cannot Pay in Full
HMRC has acknowledged that not everyone can afford to pay their tax bill in one go. Taxpayers who owe less than £30,000 and meet eligibility criteria may be able to set up a Time To Pay arrangement, spreading the cost over manageable instalments rather than risking penalties.
Alternative payment options remain available, including bank transfer, Direct Debit and online payments through GOV.UK. The HMRC app, however, remains one of the fastest and most convenient options for many users.
HMRC’s Message to Taxpayers
Myrtle Lloyd, HMRC’s Chief Customer Officer, said the deadline is now less than a month away and encouraged taxpayers to take advantage of the app. She highlighted how easy it is to make a payment, check records and stay on top of obligations, particularly during a busy period.
For diaspora families who may already be dealing with rising living costs, school expenses and remittances back home, avoiding unnecessary penalties can make a real difference.
Extra Considerations for Some Taxpayers
Some customers only complete Self Assessment to pay the High Income Child Benefit Charge. HMRC’s new PAYE digital service allows eligible claimants to pay this charge directly through their tax code instead. Those who qualify can contact HMRC before the deadline to be removed from Self Assessment, or opt out from the following tax year if a return has already been submitted.
People who sold assets such as shares after 30 October 2024 should also be aware that changes to Capital Gains Tax rates mean the system may not automatically calculate the correct amount owed. In such cases, adjustments may be required using HMRC’s online calculator.
Looking ahead, sole traders and landlords with a turnover above £50,000 will be required to use Making Tax Digital for Income Tax from April 2026. HMRC is encouraging those affected to sign up early so they have time to choose software and understand the new quarterly reporting requirements.
Staying Safe and Getting Help
HMRC has warned that Self Assessment customers are often targeted by scammers, particularly around deadline periods. Taxpayers should never share HMRC login details with anyone, including agents, and should rely only on official GOV.UK channels for information.
Support is available around the clock through online guidance, videos, webinars and HMRC’s digital assistant. Phone support is available on weekdays, but lines close on 30 January and reopen after the deadline, making early action especially important. Webchat support will be available on deadline day itself.
Why This Matters for the Diaspora
Across the Nigerian and wider African diaspora, more people are becoming self-employed, running small businesses, investing, or earning additional income streams. Understanding how Self Assessment works, and using tools like the HMRC app, is part of building financial stability and long-term security in the UK.
At Chijos News, we continue to highlight information that helps our community avoid costly mistakes, stay compliant and focus on growth. With the deadline fast approaching, acting early could save both money and peace of mind.