Spread the cost of tax payments

None of us has been exempt from the effects of inflation and cost of living issues in the past year. Which is why taxpayers who are obliged to register for self-assessment will be somewhat apprehensive as the deadline for paying any arrears of tax for 2022-23 and the first payment on account for 2023-24 looms large; both need to be paid by 31 January 2024.

However, according to HMRC, 44,800 taxpayers have already registered with HMRC to repay their tax dues.

They said:

“Those who are unable to pay in full can check online to see if they can set up a monthly payment plan called Time to Pay. If they owe less than £30,000, they can use the affordability checker on GOV.UK to help decide the best arrangements for them. Interest will be applied to any outstanding balances from 1 February.”

This Time to Pay facility is a welcome assist for individuals who simply cannot afford to settle their taxes in full by the 31 January payment date.

Myrtle Lloyd, HMRC’s Director General for Customer Services, said:

“We want to help Self-Assessment customers meet their obligations and there is no time like the present to choose the right payment option for you. Whether you choose to pay in instalments, via the HMRC app or using online banking, search ‘pay your Self-Assessment tax bill’ on GOV.UK for a full list of options.”

HMRC has also reminded taxpayers to be aware of the risk of falling victim to scams and should never share their HMRC login details or any other personal data with anyone. HMRC scams advice is available on GOV.UK.