Written by the TaxTune Editorial Team · Reviewed by our qualified accountants · Updated for 2026
The quick answer Pay your Self Assessment bill by 31 January. The fastest ways are online or telephone banking and Faster Payments, which usually reach HMRC the same or next working day. Use your UTR followed by the letter K as the payment reference so the money is matched to your account.

How to pay, step by step

  1. Find your bill and reference. Your tax calculation shows the amount due. Your payment reference is your 10 digit UTR followed by the letter K.
  2. Choose how to pay. Online or telephone banking, Faster Payments, debit card or direct debit are all accepted. Personal credit cards are not.
  3. Allow enough time to clear. Faster Payments and online banking are usually same or next day. A first direct debit can take up to 5 working days, so do not set one up on 30 January.
  4. Pay by 31 January. Both your balancing payment and any first payment on account are due on this date. Interest runs from the day after.

What to do if you cannot pay

If the bill is more than you can manage, do not simply miss it. HMRC offers a Time to Pay arrangement that spreads the amount over monthly instalments. Setting one up before the deadline, or shortly after, keeps you in control and limits penalties, though interest still applies.

Worried about a bill you cannot cover?

If the amount is a shock, or you want help arranging Time to Pay, TaxTune can check the figure is right, make sure you have claimed every relief, and guide you through the options with HMRC.

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Frequently asked questions

When is my Self Assessment tax bill due?

By 31 January following the end of the tax year. If you make payments on account, a second instalment is also due on 31 July. Interest runs from the day after a missed deadline.

What reference do I use to pay HMRC?

Use your 10 digit UTR followed by the letter K. Using the wrong reference can mean the payment is not matched to your Self Assessment account.

How long does a payment take to reach HMRC?

Faster Payments and online or telephone banking are usually same or next working day. A new direct debit can take up to 5 working days, so allow time before the deadline.

Can I pay my tax bill in instalments?

Yes. HMRC offers a Time to Pay arrangement that spreads the bill over monthly payments. Set it up before or soon after the deadline. Interest still applies but penalties are limited.

Can I pay by credit card?

You can pay by debit card but not by personal credit card. Bank transfer and direct debit are the most common methods.