HMRC is reminding Self-Assessment taxpayers that support is available for anyone struggling to pay their tax bill. Through its Time to Pay service, individuals can spread the cost of their bill in manageable monthly instalments. As the 31 January 2026 deadline has now passed, it’s important to act quickly and arrange a payment plan before late penalties apply at the end of February 2026.
Interest will continue to accrue on any tax that was not paid by the 31 January deadline, even if a Time to Pay arrangement is set up. Taxpayers who have filed their 2024/25 return but cannot pay in full may be able to arrange a plan online.
Commenting on the Time to Pay service, Sharan Athwal, Client Services Senior at Burgis & Bullock, said: “For those with bills of up to £30,000, a Time to Pay arrangement can be set up without even needing to contact HMRC directly. However, if the tax owed is more than £30,000, or a longer repayment period is needed, people will need to speak to HMRC directly to discuss their circumstances and agree terms.
“If you’re worried about paying your Self-Assessment bill, assistance may be available. HMRC’s online payment plans offer financial flexibility and can help people to meet their tax obligations in a manageable way.”
Since 6 April 2025, HMRC has reported that almost 18,000 payment plans have already been set up online, helping taxpayers avoid late payment penalties by spreading their balances over time.
HMRC is also reminding anyone who received a Simple Assessment letter that their payment deadline is 31 January 2026. Simple Assessment applies where HMRC already has the information needed to calculate the tax but cannot collect it through PAYE. These individuals do not need to register for Self-Assessment or complete a tax return, but they must pay the amount shown in their Simple Assessment letter.
Whether paying a Self-Assessment bill or a Simple Assessment amount, payments can be made in full or in instalments, provided the balance is cleared before the deadline. Payments can be made through GOV.UK or via the HMRC app.
If you need guidance or support, please contact your local Burgis & Bullock office: www.burgisbullock.com/contact-us/
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