HMRC announced plans for “paperless Self-Assessment (SA)” in a consultation document published in November. Under the proposals, taxpayers would receive communications from HMRC electronically, rather than by letter.

HMRC’s proposal for paperless SA is set out in its digital strategy. This will change the SA online service to provide a digital option from start to finish, thereby reducing the amount of paper communications issued by HMRC.

“Paperless SA” will mean anyone registered for SA Online will be able to opt to receive appropriate HMRC communications from HMRC electronically rather than receive them via traditional print and post channels. Anyone who chooses this option will be sent a message notifying them that specific SA products, for example, statutory notices, reminders and statements are available to view in their online HMRC account.

Specific types of communication will be introduced via Paperless SA at the most appropriate time. Not everything will be available straight away; rather a staged approach will be taken when each type of communication can be securely delivered.

The consultation closed on 27 December 2013 and HMRC are currently considering responses received.