HMRC moves tax return registration into the digital age
A new and improved self-assessment registration service has been launched. What's changed?
HMRC has issued a press release announcing the launch of its improved self-assessment registration service. Individuals who need to complete a tax return for 2025/26, and have never done one before, need to register for self-assessment by 5 October 2026. HMRC is reminding individuals that it isn't possible to register and complete your tax return in a single step. Once registered, HMRC will issue a unique taxpayer reference (UTR) number, which is needed to complete the tax return. Previously this was sent in the post and took up to 15 days to arrive, which is no longer appropriate for an organisation that's determined to "go digital". The revamped service makes it possible for new users to register for self-assessment through their personal tax account. The UTR will then be visible within the account within 72 hours.
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