HMRC is contacting Self Assessment taxpayers who may be concerned about paying their upcoming tax bills as the festive season puts pressure on household budgets.
The tax authority said support is available through its Time to Pay service, which allows customers to spread their liabilities through monthly instalments.
HMRC reported that nearly 18,000 payment plans have been set up since April 6, 2025.
The plans are intended to help taxpayers avoid late payment penalties while managing their finances.
The deadline for filing returns and paying tax owed is thirty-one January twenty twenty-six.
HMRC is encouraging taxpayers to act early to reduce the risk of last-minute difficulties.
Taxpayers with bills up to £30,000 can set up a payment arrangement online without needing to contact HMRC by phone.
According to the tax authrority, this enables people to create a plan that suits their circumstances and arrange manageable regular payments. Taxpayers must file their Self Assessment return before they can set up a Time to Pay arrangement.
HMRC is contacting Self Assessment taxpayers who may be concerned about paying their upcoming tax bills as the festive season puts pressure on household budgets
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Those with bills above £30,000 or who need longer to repay must speak to HMRC directly to discuss their situation.
HMRC Chief Customer Officer Myrtle Lloyd said: “We’re here to help customers get their tax right. If you are worried about paying your Self Assessment bill, assistance is available.
“Our online payment plans offer financial flexibility and can be tailored to individual circumstances. We want to support all our customers in meeting their tax obligations with confidence.”
HMRC said several payment methods are available for settling tax bills.
HMRC said several payment methods are available for settling tax bills
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GETTYPayments can be made through the free HMRC app or via the GOV.UK website. A full list of payment options is published on the government website.
HMRC is also urging people to submit their tax returns early even if they do not plan to pay their bill until the deadline.
Filing early allows taxpayers to see what they owe and prepare accordingly.
HMRC said early filing gives taxpayers additional time to decide whether to pay in full or set up instalments.
Online guidance is available on GOV.UK, including step-by-step videos explaining how to make payments.
HMRC said these resources are particularly useful for people completing Self Assessment for the first time.
The tax authority has also issued warnings about criminal activity during tax season.
HMRC said scammers use emails, phone calls and text messages to attempt to steal personal and financial information. Taxpayers are advised to verify any contact claiming to be from HMRC before sharing details.
Taxpayers advised to verify contacts claiming to be from HMRC
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HMRC said people should never disclose their login information or sensitive data in response to unsolicited communications.
The department said it continues to monitor fraudulent activity and publish alerts to help taxpayers identify scam attempts.
HMRC said anyone who receives a suspicious message should report it using the guidance available on GOV.UK.
Taxpayers are urged to remain vigilant throughout the Self Assessment period.