HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC) has been hit by a major technical failure, causing its phone helplines to crash and leaving countless taxpayers unable to get through. The outage comes at a critical time, with the Self Assessment tax return deadline of January 31, 2026 just days away.
Helplines Closed Amid Urgent Fix Efforts
In a statement posted on social media platform X, HMRC confirmed the problem, writing: “Our helplines are currently closed due to a technical issue, which we’re urgently working to resolve.” The tax authority apologised to customers and advised them to try calling later, confirming that its digital self-service channels remain operational.
The timing of this blackout could not be worse for the millions of people yet to file their returns. Latest figures indicate over five million individuals still need to submit their Self Assessment forms before the month-end cutoff. Missing the deadline triggers an automatic £100 penalty, plus interest charges on any unpaid tax.
Money Expert Issues 'Urgent' Warning
Consumer champion Martin Lewis has amplified warnings for taxpayers to act immediately. In a recent TikTok video, the founder of MoneySavingExpert.com stated: “Do you need to do a tax return? If you do, it’s urgent.” He stressed that the January 31 deadline is absolute and highlighted the financial consequences of delay.
“If you miss the deadline there’s a hundred quid fine,” Lewis said. “But more painfully, there’s also 7.75% interest on unpaid tax.” He also reminded viewers that anyone formally notified by HMRC to complete a return must do so, regardless of their personal belief about liability.
Last-Minute Rush Expected to Strain Services
Analysis of search data by SEO firm Four Pillars shows predictable spikes in online queries for Self Assessment in the weeks leading up to January 31. This surge in activity typically leads to overwhelmed phone lines and online services as procrastinators rush to file.
Lewis cautioned that this pattern would only worsen the situation once phone lines are restored: “The later you leave it, the more clogged up HMRC’s phone lines get if you need to speak to it.” His advice is clear: taxpayers should use HMRC's online services where possible and complete their returns without delay to avoid penalties and the expected last-minute chaos.
With the clock ticking down, the pressure is now on HMRC to resolve its technical issues swiftly and for millions of Brits to finalise their tax affairs before the fast-approaching deadline.
