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HMRC have issued a timely reminder to employers to file their employer annual return by the 19 May deadline, or face a late-filing penalty.

HMRC are also reminding large employers, with 50 or more employees, that they must file their 2008/09 employer annual return online, or they could face an additional penalty.

Smaller employers, with fewer than 50 employees, can still file their return on paper, but those who file online will qualify for a £75 tax-free payment.

To file online, employers must first register with HMRC's "PAYE Online for Employers" service. It can take up to a week to get the Activation PIN after registering, so employers shouldn't leave it until the last minute.

Agents, tax advisers or payroll bureaux can also file on behalf of employers. Small employers will still qualify for the £75 tax-free payment, even if an intermediary files online for them.

HMRC's Sue Williams said:

"File your Employer Annual Return now, so you avoid a last-minute rush, and any late-filing penalties."

Support and advice is available from HMRC's Employers Helpline on 08457 143 143, online at http://www.hmrc.gov.uk/paye or from HMRC's Employer CD-ROM. There is also a free video podcast available to view or download from HMRC's podcast pages at http://www.hmrc.gov.uk/podcasts.