HMRC Payment Helplines
Introduction
Facing challenges with HMRC payments can be stressful.
This guide provides an in-depth overview of the HMRC payment helplines, covering VAT, Corporation Tax, and Payroll.
Whether you’re looking for phone numbers, web chat links, or postal addresses, we’ve got you covered.
Missed an HMRC Payment Deadline
HMRC’s general enquiry lines and payment-problems lines serve different purposes. If the payment deadline has already passed, use the appropriate payment-problems number:
| Tax | General enquiry | Missed payment deadline |
|---|---|---|
| VAT | 0300 200 3700 | 0300 200 3831 |
| Corporation Tax | 0300 200 3410 | 0300 200 3840 |
| Employer PAYE | 0300 200 3200 | 0300 200 3819 |
HMRC’s payment-problems lines are currently open Monday to Friday, 8am to 6pm.
Understanding HMRC Payment Helplines
HMRC offers various helplines for different tax-related issues.
Each helpline is designed to address specific concerns, ensuring you get the support you need quickly and efficiently.
VAT Helpline
Contact Information
Contact Information
- Phone: 0300 200 3700
- Hours: 8am-6pm, Monday to Friday
- Webchat: HMRC VAT Enquiries
- Postal Address:
BT VAT
HM Revenue and Customs
BX9 1WR
United Kingdom
The VAT helpline is for general VAT enquiries. HMRC states that you cannot pay or agree Time to Pay using this telephone number. If you have already missed a VAT payment deadline, use 0300 200 3831.
How to Pay VAT
- Online/Phone Banking/BACS: Use your 9-digit VAT registration number.
- CHAPS: Same details as online banking.
- Debit or Corporate Credit Card: Pay Online
- Direct Debit: Set up via your VAT online account.
HMRC accepts personal and corporate debit cards and corporate credit cards. Personal credit cards cannot be used to pay VAT.
Common VAT Issues
- Late Payments: Missing a VAT payment deadline can lead to penalties and interest. If you have already missed the deadline, contact HMRC’s VAT payment-problems line on 0300 200 3831 to discuss your position.
- Errors in VAT Returns: If you realise there’s an error in your VAT return, you must correct it promptly. The VAT helpline can guide you through the process.
If you need help with your VAT debt then read our comprehensive article.
Corporation Tax Helpline
Contact Information
- Phone: 0300 200 3410
- Hours: 8am-6pm, Monday to Friday
- Postal Address:
Corporation Tax Services
HM Revenue and Customs
BX9 1AX
United Kingdom
The number above is HMRC’s general Corporation Tax enquiries line. If you have already missed your Corporation Tax payment deadline, HMRC’s dedicated payment-problems number is 0300 200 3840.
How to Pay Corporation Tax
- Online/Phone Banking/BACS: Use your 17-character Corporation Tax reference.
- CHAPS: Same details as online banking.
- Debit or Corporate Credit Card: Pay Online
HMRC does not accept personal credit cards for Corporation Ta
Common Corporation Tax Issues
- Payment Plans: If you have already missed your Corporation Tax payment deadline, contact HMRC’s payment-problems service on 0300 200 3840. Depending on the company’s circumstances, HMRC may consider a Time to Pay arrangement.
- Filing Deadlines: Missing filing deadlines can result in penalties. Always confirm deadlines and seek help if needed.
Payroll Helpline
Contact Information
- Phone: 0300 200 3200
- Hours: 8am-6pm, Monday to Friday
- Webchat: Employer Enquiries
- Postal Address:
PT Operations North East England
HM Revenue and Customs
BX9 1BX
United Kingdom
The employer helpline is for general PAYE and employer enquiries. If you have already missed an employer PAYE payment deadline, HMRC’s payment-problems number is 0300 200 3819.
Make PAYE or NI Payments
- Online/Phone Banking/BACS: Use appropriate payment references.
- Post: Send cheque payments with the appropriate payment reference to HMRC Direct, BX5 5BD, United Kingdom.
Common Payroll Issues
- Late PAYE Payments: Delays in PAYE payments can result in interest charges and penalties. If the payment deadline has already passed, contact HMRC’s PAYE payment-problems line on 0300 200 3819.
- National Insurance Errors: Errors in NI calculations can affect employee records. Seek assistance from the employer helpline to resolve these issues.
HMRC Waiting Times
HMRC telephone waiting times vary depending on the helpline and time of year.
HMRC increasingly encourages taxpayers to use its online services and digital assistant before calling. HMRC currently states that its VAT and Corporation Tax phone lines are generally less busy between 8:30am and 11am.
Tips to Reduce Waiting Times
- Best Times to Call: Where possible, consider calling between 8:30am and 11am, particularly when contacting the VAT or Corporation Tax helplines.
- Use Webchat and Online Services: For non-urgent enquiries, HMRC’s digital services may be faster. Your business tax account can also provide information about payments and outstanding liabilities.
Dealing with HMRC Debts
If you’re struggling with tax debts, seeking professional advice is crucial.
If your limited company cannot afford VAT, PAYE or Corporation Tax, contacting the correct HMRC helpline is only the first step. Depending on affordability, an HMRC Time to Pay arrangement may be possible.
If the debt cannot realistically be repaid, see our HMRC Tax Debt guide for the wider options available to company directors.
Our team at Business Helpline is ready to offer confidential support to help you navigate your financial difficulties.
Conclusion
Navigating HMRC payments can be complex, but using the right helplines and methods can make the process smoother.
For ongoing support and personalized advice, contact our experts at Business Helpline.
For more information, visit the official HMRC Contact Page.
