If you’re a small business owner and submit self-assessment tax returns, the UK tax system can feel daunting. One term that especially causes a lot of confusion is ‘payments on account’.
If you’re new to this concept, don’t worry. Let’s look at what payments on an account are, how they work, why they matter, and what they mean to you.
What are payments on account?
Payments on account are advance payments you make twice a year towards your income tax and Class 4 National Insurance contributions (NICs) if you’re self-employed or otherwise required to file a self-assessment tax return.
Your payments on account are based on your previous year’s tax bill. HMRC uses that bill to estimate how much tax you owe for the upcoming year, which you pay over two instalments, spreading your tax burden throughout the year.
This system helps taxpayers stay on top of their payments, reducing the risk of payment penalties and interest charged by HMRC. It also helps them with their cashflow management, reducing the risk of businesses having to scramble for funds at the year-end.
When do you have to make payments on account?
Only some have to make payments on account. If your last self-assessment tax bill was more than £1,000 or less than 80% of your total tax was deducted at source (for example, through PAYE), you must make payments on account.
How do payments on account work?
Account payments are split into two instalments. The first payment is due by 31 January, alongside any balancing payment for the previous tax year; the second is due by 31 July.
Each instalment is typically 50% of your prior year’s tax bill. So, if your tax bill for the 2023/24 tax year was £4,000, you would need to pay £2,000 by 31 January 2025 and another £2,000 by July 2024.
Of course, if your actual tax bill for the current year is higher or lower than expected, you will need to make a balancing payment or refund once you file your self-assessment return.
Managing payments on account
Managing payments on account effectively requires planning and organisation. Here are some tips to take control:
1. Budget for payments in advance
Begin by calculating how you’ll likely owe in payments on account based on your previous year’s tax bill. From there, you can determine how much you need to set aside each month to ensure you’re prepared for the January and July deadlines.
2. Keep accurate records
Maintain up-to-date records of your income, expenses, and any changes in your financial circumstances. If your income significantly fluctuates, your account payments may need to be adjusted (see below).
3. Reduce payments If your income drops
If you know your income to be lower in the current tax year than the previous one, and therefore, so will your tax bill, you can apply to HMRC to reduce your payments on account. You can do this using the SA303 form or your online self-assessment account. Be careful, though — if you reduce your payments too much, you may face a balancing payment with added interest.
4. Set reminders for deadlines
Mark the 31 January and 31 July deadlines in your calendar and set reminders to avoid missing payments. Late payments can incur penalties and interest, so timely action is crucial.
What if you can’t afford payments on account?
If you’re struggling to make payments, acting quickly is important. Contact HMRC as soon as possible to discuss a payment plan. The Time to Pay arrangement allows eligible taxpayers to spread payments over a longer period, easing the immediate financial burden.
Need help with your business taxes? Get in touch with us. Let’s see how we can help with your payments on account.