Core Viewpoint - HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) collected £325 million in fines and interest from late self-assessment tax payments, indicating a significant issue with timely tax compliance among UK taxpayers [1][3]. Group 1: Tax Compliance Issues - An estimated 600,000 taxpayers failed to meet the self-assessment tax deadline of 31 January 2025, highlighting ongoing challenges in tax compliance [2]. - HMRC reported that £8.7 billion of self-assessment tax went unpaid last year, which is 12.5% of the expected £69.6 billion collection [3]. Group 2: Penalties and Interest - The initial penalty for late self-assessment payment is £100, with an additional 7.75% interest on unpaid tax, and a further 5% penalty if tax remains unpaid after 28 February [1]. - A total of £44 billion in business and personal taxes is currently overdue, with £37.8 billion ready to enter debt collection processes [4]. Group 3: Recommendations for Taxpayers - Taxpayers are encouraged to review and challenge any late-payment penalties they receive, as many penalties can be overturned when disputed [5]. - HMRC offers Time to Pay arrangements, allowing taxpayers to spread payments over installments, which can be beneficial before additional penalties and interest accumulate [6].