Just a fortnight is left for self assessment taxpayers to file their returns, and avoid a £100 penalty for missing the 31 January deadline.

Almost 10 million self assessment tax returns were issued in 2004/05 – but last year almost a million taxpayers were late filing their returns. HM Revenue & Customs is encouraging people to file before midnight on 31 January and pay any tax they owe, as late returns carry a £100 penalty and interest is charged on any outstanding tax.

“We really don’t want people to have to pay a penalty. I urge everyone to get their tax return to us before the deadline,” said Roy Massingale, Director of Self Assessment at HM Revenue & Customs.

“Customers already registered for our online service can file easily and securely right up to midnight on 31 January at ”http://www.hmrc.gov.uk/“>http://www.hmrc.gov.uk. But if you are relying on the post, leave plenty of time for your return to be delivered.”

A surcharge of 5% is applied to any tax still outstanding after 28 days. A further penalty of £100 is due if your return still hasn’t been filed by 31 July. Daily penalties of up to £60 can also be applied to persistent non-filers.

People who need help or more information can find it at http://www.hmrc.gov.uk, or by telephoning the self assessment helpline on 0845 900 0444. The helpline is open 8am-8pm seven days a week.