Can you lodge overdue tax returns?
Mia Ramsey
Published Mar 29, 2026
Your overdue tax return is never “too late” (and no, the ATO never forgets about an unlodged return) If you have a late tax return, the sooner you do it, the better! The ATO is very clear about this: You must lodge a tax return for every year that you received any income.
What happens if you dont claim tax free threshold?
What happens if I don’t claim the tax-free threshold? If you don’t claim the tax-free threshold, you’ll have to pay tax on your entire earnings regardless of how much money you make (yep even if it’s less than $18,200).
Remember; If you have a late tax return, lodge it as soon as possible. (The longer you wait, the more chance of ATO fines and interest charges.) If you lodge your late tax return now and you don’t owe the ATO any money, usually they won’t charge any late penalties*.
What to do if you no longer need to complete a tax return?
If you think you no longer need to complete a tax return, let HMRC know as soon as you can. They will still expect a tax return otherwise. Call HMRC on 0300 200 3311 or use this online form. Complete a Self Assessment tax return. You will need to wait until the end of the tax year to do this: here are the tax deadlines. Pay the tax that is due.
What happens to my tax return if I Dont call HMRC?
If HMRC thinks you have not paid enough tax, they might still agree to cancel the tax return, while also issuing you with a “simple assessment” so you can pay that extra bit. What happens if I haven’t called HMRC yet? Then HMRC will continue to send you Self Assessment tax returns.
When to do a self assessment tax return?
Complete a Self Assessment tax return. You will need to wait until the end of the tax year to do this: here are the tax deadlines. Pay the tax that is due. HMRC will also cancel your Class 2 National Insurance contributions. Give HMRC your correct address for the next 12 months.
What do I need to know about my tax return?
Your letter will show the income you should have paid tax on. This includes any income from pay, pensions, state benefits, savings interest and employee benefits. Compare the figures with your records, for example your P60, bank statements or letters from the Department for Work and Pensions.