Top 10 Excuses For Missing The Tax Return Deadline

The 31st January deadline for submitting your tax return for the tax year to 5th April is fast approaching and you may be eligible for a tax refund.

Below are the top 10 excuses HMRC has heard over the years as to why tax returns were not submitted on time.

• My pet goldfish died
• I had a run-in with a cow
• After seeing a volcanic eruption on the news, I couldn't concentrate on anything else
• My wife won't give me my mail
• My husband told me the deadline was 31st March, and I believed him
• I've been far too busy touring the country with my one-man play
• My bad back means I can't go upstairs. That's where my tax return is.
• I've been cruising around the world in my yacht and only picking up post when I'm on dry land
• Our business doesn't really do anything
• I've been too busy submitting my clients' tax returns 

Each of the above did receive a fine from HMRC for filing late. 

For help submitting your tax return, contact the experienced Pierce Tax Team on 01254 688100.