People due to file Self Assessment returns for the first time have been urged to register now for HM Revenue & Custom’s online service.

About 733,000 people in Yorkshire have to file a Self Assessment return. They can register by visiting www.gov.uk .

But registration can take up to seven working days to complete as it involves HMRC sending out an activation code in the post. HMRC is urging people not to leave things to the last minute if they want to avoid the rush to beat the January 31 filing deadline.

Self Assessment online customers can now opt to receive HMRC communications electronically, rather than via traditional print and post channels. This is a new service that will make the Self Assessment process paperless.

Go to www.gov.uk/self-assessment-tax-returns or phone the helpline on 0300 2003310.