The tax office is writing to almost 135,000 customers to let them know of the changes which will come into force from 6 April 2023. Anyone whose individual circumstances mean they can't go digital, however, will have the option to request a form by calling HMRC.
Here, Which? explains what's happening, what your options are if you want to continue with paper returns, and why you might want to consider filing online.
What's happening to paper tax returns?
Paper self-assessment forms will stop being posted automatically to almost 135,000 customers under the age of 70, from 6 April. Customers will also be unable to download the forms from the HMRC website.
HMRC is currently sending letters to people who still file paper returns to explain the changes, with guidance on how to fill in and submit the form online.
Around 385,000 people filed their 2021-22 tax returns using paper forms. HMRC says the changes will reduce the use of paper and encourage more people to submit online - a process which it says is quicker and easier than sending the form in the post.
Find out more:Ways to access paper returns after 6 April
Not all customers who currently file paper returns will receive this letter. For example, those over the age of 70 who haven’t yet gone digital and don’t have an accountant will continue to automatically receive a paper tax return.
0300 200 3610But there are concerns that the move will make the process more difficult for older people under the age of 70 that still struggle to go digital.
Caroline Abrahams, Charity Director at Age UK, said: 'Filling in a tax form can be stressful enough at the best of times and HMRC must ensure that it is easy for those older people who need to file a tax return, but cannot do this online, to get a paper form.
'People will need clear information and, if they are expected to call HMRC to request a paper form, must not be hanging on the phone for ages waiting to get through.'
Age UK runs a digital inclusion programmes in many local communities to help people in later life gain the skills and confidence to use the internet. For more information about support to get online in your area, you can call 0800 169 6565.
Find out more:Advantages to filing online
Almost 97% of people already file their tax returns online annually, HMRC claims. And there are good reasons for doing so.
Benefits of filing online include:
More time to file:Less chance of making an error:Your tax is calculated automatically:Instant confirmation from HMRC:Save your progress for later:How to register for online self-assessment
If you haven't submitted an online tax return before, you need to register in advance and then follow several steps before you can start your tax return.
The next step is to get your Unique Tax Reference number (UTR). You'll need to set up a user ID and password, and then you'll be sent your 10-digit UTR in the post. Remember to do this in good time before the online self-assessment deadline in January.
You'll then need to get your activation code. This will also be sent by post, and will allow you to file online. The code can take up to seven days to arrive, so you need to make sure you register well in advance of the deadline.
Finally, you must activate your online HMRC account within 28 days of the date shown on the activation code letter. Otherwise, the code will expire and you'll need to request another one.
Find out more:Submit your tax return with Which?
When you're ready, it can also be used to file your tax return directly to HMRC.
source https://www.which.co.uk/news/article/hmrc-to-stop-sending-paper-tax-returns-to-thousands-of-under-70s-aL7h53h0VMFl