HMRC has provided an update on the turnaround times for the processing of paper forms 64–8 and registrations for Self-Assessment and self-employment. With the Self-Assessment online filing deadline now just one month away, readers are advised to take note that if an agent authorisation for Self-Assessment is needed to be effective before 31 January 2013, HMRC advise that this is applied for online by 16 January or by posting form 64–8 by 27 December. Applications for Self-Assessment registration should be posted by 20 December.

The table at http://www.hmrc.gov.uk/news/caat-update.htm shows the estimated turnaround times that HMRC aims to achieve based on current work plans and transaction volume forecasts.

HMRC wish to stress that this is not an estimate of how long it takes HMRC to process applications. Instead, this is an estimate of the ‘end to end’ turnaround time - that is, how long should be allowed after posting the form to HMRC for the authorisation/application to become effective, or for the agent to receive any relevant outputs.

Readers are also reminded that it is also possible to register for online for tax and National instead of posting form CWF1. Form CWF1 has also recently been updated and from 1 February 2013, HMRC will return old forms if the correct version isn't used.