You may be able to claim an amount back from HMRC online
HMRC has provided an update regarding when it processes tax refunds for customers. You can check how to claim any owed money from the taxman on the Government website.
The tax authority clarified how the system operates following an enquiry from someone who believed they were due a repayment. They initially asked when HMRC would carry out the calculations to determine if they were owed any money. They said: “I already know I am entitled to one and roughly how much, but how long will it take you to confirm it?” In reply, HMRC stated that it would “review” PAYE records for the previous 2025/2026 tax year in June.
The department set out how the system works: “We aim to complete our checks by November. If you’re due a refund, you’ll be able to claim it online through your personal tax account.”
Key date to note
Should you be owed money, there’s a tool on the Government website you can use to find out how to reclaim the tax. However, the person responded saying they already had the HMRC app and were certain they were owed money as HMRC had wrongly altered their tax code.
They questioned: “Is there anyway I can apply before that?” HMRC responded to the taxpayer, stating: “The earliest would be June 2026.” You can overpay tax in a number of ways, such as if you pay too much from your wages or on your work-related expenses.
You might also find yourself overpaying on pension income or through your self-assessment tax return. In certain circumstances, HMRC will issue a tax calculation letter, known as a P800, which will confirm whether you are owed money and explain how to claim it back.
When are tax refunds issued?
You may be able to reclaim the sum via the online bank transfer service on the Government website, by requesting a cheque, or through your personal tax account. If you submit your claim online, the money should land in your bank account within five working days.
Should you opt for a cheque by post, this should land on your doorstep within six weeks.
