Missed your self-assessment deadline? The daily penalties just started.

If you're a UK freelancer who missed the 31 January self-assessment deadline, here's the bad news: as of 1 March, HMRC is now charging £10 per day on top of the initial £100 penalty. That means if you still haven't filed, you're looking at £200+ in penalties right now — and it gets £10 worse every single day. The penalty timeline When What happens Running total 1 day late £100 automatic penalty £100 3 months (1 March) £10/day starts £100 + £10/day 6 months £300 or 5% of tax £1,000+ 12 months Another £300 or 5% £1,300+ Maximum filing penalties alone: over £1,600 . Plus late payment interest. What to do right now 1. File immediately — even with estimates This stops the daily penalties. Don't have exact figures? HMRC allows estimated returns. File now, amend later. 2. Pay what you can Filing and paying are separate. File even if you can't pay. HMRC offers Time to Pay arrangements — call 0300 200 3822. 3. Appeal if you have a reasonable excuse Serious illness, bereavement, HMRC service out