HMRC Confirms Helplines Will Be Closed on 31 January Self Assessment Deadline Day

Taxpayers completing their Self Assessment Tax Return should not rely on last-minute support from HMRC because the agency has confirmed that its telephone helplines will be closed on the 31 January deadline day.

This is why HMRC is encouraging everyone to seek support before the deadline, which has fallen on a Saturday this year. While phone lines will not be available on this day, HMRC says alternative digital support will still be in place for those who need last-day help.

Why Will the Helplines Be Closed on Self Assessment Deadline Day?

The short answer is because the deadline falls on the weekend.

HMRC’s Self Assessment phone lines remain open from Monday to Friday, between 8 am and 6 pm. That means that once the line closes at the end of business on Friday, 30 January, it will not reopen until Monday, 2 February.

So, anyone hoping to rely on phone support to resolve any issue or ask a question should either call on or before Friday or be deprived of assistance.

Is There Any Alternative to Phone Support?

Although phone lines will be closed, HMRC has confirmed that enhanced webchat support will be available on the deadline day. This is part of the agency’s wider push towards delivering digital services, particularly when deadlines fall outside normal working hours.

The expanded webchat service is expected to handle a broader range of enquiries than usual. Support will cover Self Assessment issues, online services queries, agent-related matters, bereavement enquiries and access to HMRC’s extra support teams. This is intended to provide a safety net for those who still need help on the final day.

Additional Help for Those Who Need Extra Support

For taxpayers with more complex circumstances or additional needs, HMRC has also confirmed that a call-back option will be available in certain cases. This will apply where webchat support alone is not sufficient and further assistance is required.

It is to be reiterated that this call-back process will be used selectively, only when a case cannot reasonably be resolved through digital channels. While it is not a full replacement for personal interaction that phone calls offer, it is designed to ensure vulnerable or complex cases are not left without support.

Millions Still Yet to File Their Self Assessment Tax Return

As of 23 January, HMRC estimated that around 3.3 million Self Assessment Tax Returns for the 2024–25 tax year were still outstanding. This highlights how busy the final days of January are likely to be, particularly with reduced access to telephone support.

With time running short, HMRC continues to urge taxpayers not to leave things until the very last moment. Filing early not only reduces pressure but also increases the chances of getting help if something goes wrong.

Conclusion

With helplines closed on deadline day, the key message for taxpayers is preparation. Anyone who expects to need guidance, clarification or reassurance is advised to seek help before Friday, 30 January, rather than waiting until the weekend.

While enhanced webchat services will be available, digital support may not suit everyone. Getting organised early, checking figures in advance and submitting ahead of the deadline can help reduce stress and avoid the risk of missing out on support when it matters most.