HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC) has backtracked on its decision to not open its self assessment tax return helpline on 31 January.
The tax authority said earlier this week that its phone line would not be available this Saturday, unlike in previous years when the deadline for tax returns has been at the weekend.
But HMRC has today said the helpline for self-assessment queries will now be open from 9am to 4pm on 31 January.
According to the Association of Taxation Technicians (AAT), it will not be a full helpline, but “advisers will be able to answer common queries and, where needed, arrange a call back for more detailed support”.
An enhanced webchat capacity will also be available from 8am to 4pm.
AAT shared a statement from HMRC which said:
“Guided by our Charter commitments, we want to do everything we can to help all our customers file on time. So, we have bolstered our support to ensure every customer can get the help they need on deadline day – with over 9 million customers already filed, we’re confident Self Assessment is on track.
“In addition to our enhanced webchat capacity, our phone helplines will also be open from 9am to 4pm on Saturday 31 January to provide Self Assessment support.
“Digital services remain the fastest route to help. The phone line provides an additional safety net for customers who need to speak to someone.”