Answers · UK 2025/26
How long does a UK tax refund take?
Most PAYE tax refunds claimed online via your Personal Tax Account are processed within 5 working days, with money in your account within a week. Self-assessment refunds take up to 10 working days after processing. Paper forms can take 4–8 weeks. HMRC may take longer during peak periods (January–March).
Full answer
PAYE refunds: if you overpaid due to emergency tax code, leaving work mid-year or multiple jobs, you can claim via your Personal Tax Account at HMRC online. Once HMRC processes the claim (typically 5 working days), the refund is paid by bank transfer in another 3–5 working days; by cheque within 5 weeks. Self-assessment refunds: after you file your return, HMRC processes it within 72 hours online. If a repayment is due and no manual checks are triggered, it is typically issued within 10 working days. Claims can be made more quickly by bank transfer vs cheque. Delays: HMRC may hold refunds for security checks — especially large amounts, new accounts or first-time filers. P800 letters: HMRC automatically reviews PAYE records after year-end and issues a P800 tax calculation. If it shows a refund, you can claim online immediately; it is credited to your bank account within 5 days or by cheque within 45 days. Common causes of overpayment: starting a new job (emergency 1257L/W1/M1 code), leaving work part-way through the year, claiming tax-free interest on savings manually.
Try the calculator
This answer is informational only and does not constitute financial, tax or legal advice. Figures are for the 2025/26 UK tax year. See our methodology and sources.