Warning over upcoming HMRC tax deadline
With the festive season upon us and some people’s Christmas outgoings feeling the strain like Santa’s belt after too many mince pies, HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) is reminding Self Assessment customers that help is available to manage their tax bill.
The deadline to file and pay any tax owed is 31 January 2026, but people who are unable to pay in full by then may be able to set up a Time to Pay arrangement online and spread the cost over monthly instalments. Better still, for those with bills of up to £30,000, such an arrangement can be set up without even needing to contact HMRC directly.
Since 6 April 2025, nearly 18,000 payment plans have been set up using the service, helping customers avoid late payment penalties by arranging regular payments that suit their own circumstances.
A Time to Pay arrangement cannot be set up until a Self Assessment return has been filed. If the tax owed is more than £30,000, or a longer repayment period is needed, people can still apply but will need to contact HMRC directly.
HMRC encourages customers to file their tax return early to avoid last-minute stress and to know what they owe sooner. This doesn’t mean that the tax needs to be paid before the deadline, though – it is still due on 31 January. Online help and support, including YouTube videos explaining how to pay a tax bill, are available for anyone completing their return, including first-time filers.
Both Self Assessment and Simple Assessment payments can be made in full or in instalments by the deadline.
People are reminded to stay safe from scams. Criminals use emails, phone calls, and texts to try to steal information and money from taxpayers. HMRC’s guidance on tax scams is to always check before sharing personal or financial details, and never share HMRC login information with anyone.
“We’re here to help customers get their tax right. If you are worried about paying your Self Assessment bill, assistance is available,” said Myrtle Lloyd, HMRC’s Chief Customer Officer.
“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.”
