Let’s Break This Down Together...
Feeling confused about why HMRC wants tax in advance or unsure why your bill suddenly doubled in January? Payments on account feel like one of the most baffling parts of being self employed.
This guide walks you through what payments on account are, when they apply and how the deadlines work. It also explains how they are calculated, how to reduce them and the common problems that catch people out.
By the end, you will know exactly what to expect and how to plan ahead without the stress. Let’s find out.
What exactly is payment on account?
Payment on account is HMRC’s system for collecting tax in advance from self-employed taxpayers. If you are self-employed or have significant untaxed income, you may be required to make payments on account. Think of it as paying your tax bill in instalments rather than one lump sum.
It kicks in when your Self Assessment tax bill exceeds £1,000. You are automatically enrolled to make payments on account if your tax bill meets this threshold. This threshold includes Income Tax and Class 4 National Insurance contributions, but not student loan repayments or Capital Gains Tax.
The system splits your expected tax bill into two equal payments. These payments are calculated based on your previous year's tax bill, which includes your total tax bill for that period. You’ll pay half by 31 January and the other half by 31 July.
Account example: If your estimated earnings for the previous year resulted in a tax bill of £2,000, you would make two payments on account of £1,000 each for the upcoming tax year.
If most of your tax has already been deducted at source through PAYE on your employment income, you may not need to make payments on account.
Payments on account are designed to ensure that self employment and other untaxed income are properly taxed throughout the year.
When do you need to make these payments?
The first payment is due by midnight on 31 January, the same day as your balancing payment for the previous tax year. These payments are based on your previous year's income tax liability. This can make January a particularly expensive month!
Your second payment is due by midnight on 31 July. Each payment equals 50% of your previous tax bill. This helps you spread the cost of your tax bill for the upcoming tax year.
If you’re newly self-employed, you won’t make any payments on account until after your first tax return. This means your first January payment will be larger than usual.
It’s worth noting that payments on account only cover Income Tax and Class 4 National Insurance. Other taxes like Capital Gains Tax must be paid in full by the January deadline. Good planning is key to avoiding piling up payments.
How much will you need to pay?
Can you reduce your payments on account?
Common payment on account problems
Payment options and deadlines
You can pay online through the Government Gateway, which is usually the quickest method. Bank transfers and Direct Debits are also popular options.
For those who prefer traditional methods, you can still pay by cheque. Allow plenty of time for posting and processing if using this method.
Set up a budget account specifically for tax if you struggle with setting money aside. Keeping your tax funds in a separate bank account can make it easier to manage your payments and ensure you have enough set aside when payments are due. Putting away about 25-30% of your income can help cover all tax liabilities.
Always allow 3-5 working days for payments to process. HMRC considers a payment late if it hasn’t cleared by the deadline, not when you sent it.
Final Thoughts
Payments on account might seem like a headache, but they actually help spread your tax burden across the year. This is better than facing one massive bill annually.
The key is preparation – knowing the deadlines, understanding how much you'll need to pay, and setting money aside regularly.
If you're struggling with the system, don't panic. HMRC offers payment plans for those in genuine difficulty, though interest will still apply.
Simplifying Payment on Account Management
Getting to grips with payments on account doesn't have to be overwhelming when you have the right tools.
The UK's first personal tax app, Pie, automatically calculates your upcoming payments and shows exactly when they're due in a clear, visual dashboard.
We'll send you friendly reminders weeks before HMRC deadlines, giving you plenty of time to prepare your finances and avoid those nasty late payment charges.
Our app lets you track your income and expenses throughout the year, so you can see in real-time how your tax liability is building up.
Why not explore Pie and see how we can take the stress out of your self-employed tax journey?
