TAX CODE
Claiming a tax code refund.
When HMRC has the wrong tax code on you, you usually overpay. Here is exactly how the refund happens, when to expect it, and how to escalate if it stalls.
Educational estimates only. Not tax, legal, financial, payroll or employment advice. Verify with your employer's payroll team or HMRC.
Related
Common questions
How will I know if I am owed a refund?
After the tax year ends (5 April), HMRC reconciles every PAYE record. If you overpaid, you receive a P800 calculation letter, usually between June and October. The letter tells you the refund amount and gives you four weeks to claim it online via your Personal Tax Account.
How long does a tax refund take?
Online claims are typically paid within 5 working days to your bank account. If you choose a cheque, expect 3 to 6 weeks. Refunds during the current tax year (mid-year) flow through your next payslip rather than as a separate payment.
What if I do not get a P800?
Contact HMRC on 0300 200 3300, or check your Personal Tax Account online. You may need to submit a Self Assessment if your income is complex. Refunds for previous years can be claimed up to 4 years back via form P50, P85 or via your tax account.
Can my employer refund me directly?
For mid-year corrections to a cumulative tax code, yes - your employer reconciles your year-to-date tax against the new code and the next payslip shows a refund or reduced deduction. For year-end overpayments, only HMRC can issue the refund.
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Open the toolPayslipIQ provides educational information and estimated calculations only. It does not provide tax, legal, financial, payroll, accounting, pension, benefits or employment advice. Always verify your payslip, tax code, deductions and take-home pay with your employer's payroll department, HMRC, your pension provider, a qualified accountant, tax adviser or another appropriately qualified professional.