The deadline
Every scheme registered in HMRC's ERS online service needs an end of year return, or a nil return, by 6 July after the end of the tax year. For the 2025 to 2026 tax year that was 6 July 2026; for 2026 to 2027 it is 6 July 2027. HMRC does not send reminders, and using an agent does not move the deadline.
The penalties
| When | Penalty |
|---|---|
| Not filed by 6 July | £100, automatic, even if one day late |
| Still outstanding 3 months later | A further £300, automatic |
| Still outstanding 6 months later | A further £300, automatic |
| Still outstanding 9 months later | HMRC may charge £10 a day |
Penalties can apply to each registered scheme, including schemes with no activity that needed a nil return.
If you get a penalty
- Submit the return or nil return straight away. That stops further penalties, and HMRC only considers an appeal once the return is in.
- If the scheme has ended, enter the final event date in the ERS online service and file the last return.
- If you had a reasonable excuse, you can appeal with evidence. HMRC's penalty page explains how.
How to avoid it
- Put 6 July in the diary for every registered scheme, including ones you think are dormant.
- Cease schemes you no longer use, so they stop needing returns.
- Check your file early. A rejected attachment on 5 July leaves very little time.
Based on HMRC's published guidance: Check how to deal with an ERS penalty. ERSM140080. Submit returns for ERS. Checked on 20 October 2026. This is general guidance, not tax advice, and HMRC's own pages take priority if they change. Share Scheme Return is not affiliated with HMRC.
Let the free checker find these for you
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