HMRC has unveiled a new tax return form for self-assessment tax-payers, which it claims is easier for people to complete, following a two-year pilot with 70,000 people.

According to the body, the form has fewer questions, simpler language and an improved layout and is the first major revamp since 1997.

The changes also include a shorter self-employment section and putting the main source of income at the start of the form.

The new form will be sent to those individuals who have not filed returns online before or those who do not qualify for the shorter version, introduced in 2005 for those in simpler situations.

But, as part of the revamp, the deadline for submission has been brought forward, with people choosing to complete the paper form now facing a deadline of 31 October 2008. Those who file online will still be able to file as late as 31 January 2009.