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Home Blog Personal Tax Planning Self Assessment & Filing Guides Why Your HMRC Tax Refund Might Be Delayed and How to Track It

Why Your HMRC Tax Refund Might Be Delayed and How to Track It

A clock showing a why HMRC tax refund might be delayed

If you’re due a tax refund from HMRC after submitting your Self Assessment tax return, here’s a clear overview of what to expect – and what you can do if your HMRC refund is delayed.

When Will I Receive My Tax Refund?

HMRC typically processes Self Assessment tax refunds within 5 to 10 working days from the date your return is submitted. If approved, the tax repayment will be paid directly into your nominated bank account.

What If There’s a Delay?

Sometimes, HMRC selects a return for additional verification checks, which can delay your refund by up to 4 weeks. These are standard procedures and don’t necessarily indicate a problem with your tax return.

Common Reasons for HMRC Delays

Delays in receiving your HMRC tax repayment may occur for several reasons:

  • Submission of new or updated bank details
  • Higher-than-usual refund amounts
  • First-time filers or unusual filing patterns
  • Significant changes in employment or income

If your tax refund is taking too long, it may be due to one of these routine checks.

Ways to follow up with HMRC

  1. Use Your Personal Tax Account Online
    • Go to Personal tax account: sign in or set up – GOV.UK
    • Sign in with your Government Gateway ID
  2. Check the HMRC App:
    • Download the HMRC app from the App Store or Google Play
    • Sign in using your Government Gateway credentials
    • You can view your tax summary, check the status of returns, and see any repayments due
  3. Check the status of your return and any repayment due
    • Call HMRC Personal Tax Helpline: 0300 200 3300
    • Opening hours: Monday to Friday, 8am to 6pm (UK time)
    • Have your National Insurance number and Self Assessment UTR ready.
  4. Write to HMRC (if needed)
    • If calling or online access is not possible, a letter can be sent to:
    • HM Revenue and Customs
    • Self Assessment
    • PO Box 4000
    • Cardiff
    • CF14 8HR
    • Be sure to include your UTR, NI number, and a brief explanation of the issue regarding your delayed tax refund.

Need Help Chasing a Refund?

If your HMRC tax refund is delayed beyond the usual timeframe and you’ve had no luck tracking it yourself, we can help.

Through your TaxDash account, you can request support via our HMRC representative service. A support fee of £24 (including VAT) applies. Once we receive your request, our team will follow up with HMRC and provide you with an update on your refund status.