If you’re a Self-Assessment customer worried about paying your tax bill, HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) has options to help.

The deadline to file and pay any tax owed is 31 January 2026, but if you can’t pay in full by then, you may be able to set up a Time to Pay arrangement. This allows you to spread the cost over manageable monthly instalments. 

For bills of up to £30,000, you can set up a payment plan online without needing to contact HMRC directly. Since 6 April 2025, nearly 18,000 Self-Assessment payment plans have already been set up, helping people avoid late payment penalties while paying in a way that suits their circumstances. 

Important:
A Time to Pay arrangement can only be set up after filing your Self-Assessment return. If your tax owed is over £30,000, or you need a longer repayment plan, you can still apply, but you’ll need to contact HMRC directly. 

There are multiple ways to pay your Self-Assessment bill, including the free and secure HMRC app or online at GOV.UK.

HMRC encourages customers to file early to reduce last-minute stress and find out what they owe sooner, though payment is still due by 31 January 2026. 

Internet link: HMRC offers time to help pay your tax bill