Self-Assessment Deadline Review: Why January Planning Matters
For many individuals and business owners, the 31 January 2026 self-assessment deadline is one of the most important dates in the tax calendar. Yet it’s also one that often creates unnecessary stress — particularly when left until the final weeks.
By 31 January 2026, you must:
File your 2024/25 online self-assessment tax return
Pay any balancing tax due
Make the first payment on account for 2025/26, where applicable
Missing or delaying any of these can result in penalties, interest charges, and avoidable pressure on cashflow.
Why Leaving It Late Causes Problems
Leaving self-assessment until the last minute often means:
Rushed decisions based on incomplete information
Limited time to plan for tax payments
Increased risk of errors or omissions
Cashflow strain in January
For many, the challenge isn’t the tax itself — it’s the lack of time to prepare properly.
The Benefits of Reviewing Your Position Early
Taking a proactive approach to self-assessment allows you to:
Confirm your true tax liability with clarity
Plan ahead for payments, rather than reacting at the deadline
Avoid late filing penalties and interest
Identify planning opportunities for the year ahead, including future tax efficiency
Early review turns self-assessment from a stressful obligation into a manageable, planned process.
How Exchange Accountants Can Help
At Exchange Accountants, we support clients through the self-assessment process from start to finish.
Our team can:
Prepare and review your self-assessment return
Confirm exactly what you owe — and when
Help you plan cashflow around upcoming payments
Answer queries clearly and promptly
Remove the pressure of last-minute filing
We work with individuals, directors, landlords and sole traders to ensure their returns are accurate, compliant, and submitted on time.
Plan Now for a Calmer January
If you haven’t yet reviewed your self-assessment position, now is the ideal time to do so. Early action gives you options — and peace of mind — as the deadline approaches.
📞 028 9263 4135
📧 info@exchangeaccountants.com
🌐 www.exchangeaccountants.com
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