Tax authorities recommend monitoring bank accounts closely after setting up payment plans for tax bills. Recent guidance addresses common concerns about delayed direct debit collections.
Understanding Payment Processing Delays
A taxpayer inquired on March 25 around 1:15 p.m. about a scheduled payment that had not yet been withdrawn from their account. Officials explained that such delays occur occasionally, stating: “Payments don’t always show as taken first thing and may be processed later in the day.”
They advised: “If it hasn’t been taken by the end of today, it’s worth checking your bank account again tomorrow.” This ensures users stay proactive without unnecessary worry.
Requirements for Setting Up a Payment Plan
To establish instalment payments for unpaid taxes, individuals or businesses must provide:
- The relevant reference number, such as a unique taxpayer reference, found on HMRC correspondence.
- UK bank account details where direct debit authorisation is permitted.
- Details of income and expenditure, or company finances for corporation tax.
Next Steps if Payment Remains Pending
If the transaction does not appear the following day, contact HMRC promptly to verify setup details. Support resources are available on the official government website.
Contact Information for Tax Queries
For income tax issues, including tax codes, overpayments, underpayments, savings tax, refunds, or ISAs, call 0300 200 3300. The helpline operates Monday to Friday from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.
