The system can vary for how payments are processed
HMRC has issued guidance and said taxpayers may want to monitor their bank accounts. The clarification followed an enquiry from a customer regarding payments.
Writing on March 25, the person asked the tax authority on social media at around 1.15pm: “I set up a payment plan and payment is due to be taken out today. It’s not been taken out yet – does this sometimes happen later in the day?” Payment plans can be arranged to settle a tax bill through regular instalments. HMRC confirmed to the person that this scenario does occasionally occur. The organisation said: “Payments don’t always show as taken first thing and may be processed later in the day.
“If it hasn’t been taken by the end of today, it’s worth checking your bank account again tomorrow.”
To arrange a payment plan, you need to have:
- The relevant reference number for the tax you cannot pay, such as your unique tax reference number. These details will typically be on any correspondence you have received from HMRC about the unpaid tax
- Your UK bank account details – you must be authorised to set up a direct debit on this account
- Details of your income and spending, or your company’s income and spending if you owe company tax.
You can contact HMRC if you need help
HMRC also informed the person what steps to take if the amount remained outstanding the next day. The organisation added: “If it’s still not showing after that, you can contact us to make sure everything is in place.”
They provided the customer with a link to a page on the Government website with contact details for those having problems with making a payment. For queries regarding income tax, HMRC can be reached on 0300 200 3300.
The helpline operates Monday to Friday between 8am and 6pm. This number can be used for assistance with your tax code, or matters concerning a tax overpayment or underpayment.
Support is also available on this phoneline for issues to do with tax on savings, including refunds, or questions about ISAs.
