HMRC urges early action as thousands use Time to Pay to manage tax bills
HMRC urges early action as thousands use Time to Pay to manage tax bills
Subscribe to the Businessin Wales daily newsletter for FREE here.
HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) is reminding Self Assessment taxpayers that flexible support is available to help them manage their tax bills ahead of the January deadline.
The tax authority is encouraging customers who may struggle to pay their bill in full to consider using its Time to Pay service, which allows eligible taxpayers to spread payments over monthly instalments.
The deadline to file and pay Self Assessment tax remains 31 January 2026, but HMRC says acting early can reduce stress and help people stay on top of their obligations.
Under the scheme, taxpayers with bills of up to £30,000 can set up a payment plan online without needing to speak directly to HMRC, provided their Self Assessment return has already been submitted.
Since the start of the current tax year on 6 April 2025, nearly 18,000 Time to Pay arrangements have already been put in place.
Myrtle Lloyd, HMRC’s Chief Customer Officer, said: “We’re here to help customers get their tax right. If you are worried about paying your Self Assessment bill, assistance is available.
“Our online payment plans offer financial flexibility and can be tailored to individual circumstances. We want to support all our customers in meeting their tax obligations with confidence.”
HMRC is also reminding taxpayers that a Time to Pay arrangement cannot be set up until a Self Assessment return has been filed.
Filing early allows customers to understand what they owe well in advance of the deadline, even though payment is not required until 31 January.
A range of payment options is available, including through the HMRC app and online services on GOV.UK.
Both Self Assessment and Simple Assessment bills can be paid in full or in instalments by the deadline, depending on individual circumstances.
To support customers completing their returns, HMRC offers online guidance, step-by-step help and video tutorials, including resources aimed at first-time filers.
Alongside payment reminders, HMRC has reiterated warnings about tax-related scams. Fraudsters continue to use emails, phone calls and text messages to impersonate HMRC in an attempt to obtain personal or financial information.
Want more from Businessin Wales? Why not follow us on our socials
Listen to the Businessin Wales podcast
