Beware of HMRC delays when setting up PAYE direct debits
One of the professional accountancy bodies is warning that employers need to allow additional time to set up new variable direct debits for PAYE. Why?
HMRC’s guidance on PAYE states that employers should set up direct debits at least six working days in advance of the payment due date. Following an update on HMRC delays provided to the Institute of Chartered Accountants in England and Wales (ICAEW), it turns out that more notice is needed in order to meet the deadline. HMRC’s guidance has not been amended, but the ICAEW is warning that new variable direct debits need to be set up by:
- 10 March for PAYE due on 22 March; and
- 12 April for PAYE due on 22 April.
The recommendation is that employers set up new direct debits at least nine working days prior to the payment due date. This service is still relatively new and HMRC is working to improve the process.
Related Topics
-
Pay self-assessment tax
-
Cut your losses to get a tax refund
You invested in a company that’s now in dire straits and your shares are worth next to nothing. Selling them isn’t an option so how do you go about getting some tax back on your bad investment?
-
HMRC updates advisory fuel rates from 1 March 2026
HMRC has published the latest advisory fuel and electric rates (AFRs) for company cars, effective from 1 March 2026. Several rates have changed since the previous quarter. What should employers be aware of?