Answers · UK 2025/26
How long does an HMRC tax refund take?
Online Self Assessment refunds typically take 5 working days for bank transfer, up to 4 weeks for cheque. P800 / Simple Assessment refunds after year-end usually arrive July to November. Online claims via Personal Tax Account are processed within 21 days.
Full answer
UK HMRC tax refund timing. Self Assessment refunds: once you submit your return showing an overpayment, HMRC processes within: 5 working days for bank transfer to a UK account, 6 weeks for a cheque (international or no bank details on file), up to 12 weeks if HMRC needs to do additional checks. PAYE end-of-year refunds: HMRC reconciles tax records typically July to November after the tax year ends. If you have overpaid, you receive a P800 calculation letter (refund claim online) or a Simple Assessment letter. Online claims (refund via Personal Tax Account): typically 21 days to bank account. Marriage Allowance refund: backdated claims for 4 tax years processed within ~6 weeks. Form R40 (savings interest refund): 6–8 weeks. CGT property refund (sold residential property at a loss): claim via Property Reporting Service, typically 6 weeks. NEVER share bank details or click links in unsolicited HMRC emails/SMS — all genuine refunds use your existing record. Real HMRC contact: gov.uk/tax-refund-helpline.
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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.