What Are Payments on Account? UK Self Assessment Explained

Alan Bermingham

10 Years of Expertise in Fintech Innovation

3 min read

What you need to know

If you're self-employed or receive untaxed income, HMRC might require you to make advance tax payments. What are payments on account uk? They're essentially prepayments toward your next year's tax bill.

Think of them as instalments that help spread your tax burden. You pay twice a year based on your previous year's tax liability, making budgeting more manageable. Not everyone needs to make these payments. There are specific thresholds and exemptions that apply, which we'll explore in detail.

In this article, we'll cover everything you need to know about payments on account. You'll learn when they're due, how to calculate them, and who's exempt.

What exactly are payments on account?

Payments on account are advance payments toward your upcoming Self Assessment tax bill if you're new to the process, this guide to payments on account for first-time self-employed explains how it works. They're based on the previous year's income tax and Class 4 National Insurance contributions.

The total amount gets split into two equal instalments paid six months apart. This system helps you avoid facing one large tax bill at year-end.

You'll need to make these payments when your tax bill exceeds £1,000 and meets other criteria. HMRC automatically calculates the amounts using your last tax return.

They essentially help spread the cost of your annual tax liability throughout the year. This makes managing your cash flow significantly easier for self-employed individuals.

When do I need to make payments on account?

You'll need to make these payments if your previous year's tax bill was over £1,000. Additionally, less than 80% of your total tax must have been collected through PAYE or other deductions.

Both conditions need to apply for payments to be required. You must also have owed money after submitting your Self Assessment return. HMRC will tell you if payments on account are due when you file your return. The system doesn't apply to certain types of income like Capital Gains Tax.

How much will I need to pay and when?

Each payment equals 50% of last year's tax and Class 4 NI liability. Your first payment is due by 31st January alongside your Self Assessment submission.

The second payment follows on 31st July the same year. These payments don't include Class 2 NI, Student Loan repayments, or Capital Gains Tax.

HMRC calculates the amounts automatically based on your submitted return. You'll see the exact figures on your Self Assessment statement once processed.

For example, if your previous year's tax bill was £3,000, you'd pay £1,500 in January and £1,500 in July. This predictable schedule helps with financial planning.

Can I reduce my payments on account?

Yes, if you expect to earn less this year than last year you can learn more about reducing HMRC payments on account and when it makes sense. You can submit a claim to reduce payments through your online tax account.

Just provide a reasonable estimate of your expected tax liability for the current year. You can even reduce payments to zero if your circumstances justify it.

Be careful though - underestimating can lead to interest charges later on. You'll need to pay any shortfall when you submit your next tax return.

I once helped a client who'd lost a major contract reduce their payments by 60%. This prevented unnecessary cash flow pressure during a difficult period.

What happens if I don't pay on time?

HMRC charges interest on late payments from the due date onwards and there are additional rules around HMRC payments on account penalties you should understand.Interest rates change regularly and compound daily, so amounts can add up quickly.

There's no penalty for your first late payment, just the interest charges. However, persistent late payment can trigger additional penalties from HMRC.

Your credit rating won't be directly affected by late tax payments. Outstanding amounts carry forward and continue accruing interest until paid.

It's worth setting up reminders well before the payment dates. Even a few days' delay can result in unexpected interest charges.

Who doesn't need to make payments on account?

People whose total tax bill was £1,000 or less are exempt. Those who paid 80% or more of their tax through PAYE don't need to worry either.

Individuals with no tax liability in the previous year won't receive a payment request. Some specific types of income are exempt from the system entirely.

Company directors may have different rules depending on their payment structure. Pensioners often fall below the thresholds due to automatic tax deductions.

If you're unsure whether you qualify for an exemption, check your latest tax calculation. HMRC clearly states whether payments on account apply to your situation.

Making tax simpler with the right tools

Payments on account help spread your tax burden across the year rather than facing one large bill. Understanding the rules helps you plan your finances and avoid unexpected interest charges.

If your circumstances change, remember you can apply to reduce your payments anytime. This flexibility ensures the system works for changing business conditions.

Managing Self Assessment can feel overwhelming, especially when tracking payments on account. That's why having the right support makes all the difference.

Pie is the UK's first personal tax app, dedicated to helping working individuals overcome their tax burdens. It stands out as the only self assessment solution that offers integrated bookkeeping and real-time tax figures.

The app also provides simplified tax return processing and timely expert advice. This comprehensive approach takes the stress out of managing your tax obligations.

Ready to take control of your tax payments? Visit Pie tax to see how easy managing your Self Assessment can be.