Delayed Tax Refunds: What to Do When HMRC Takes Longer Than Expected
Chrissy Leach • 19 May 2025
Are you still waiting for a 2023/24 tax refund?
How Long Should a Tax Refund Take?
Typically, HMRC aims to process tax refunds within:
- 5 working days if submitted online and payment is made directly to your bank
- Up to 8 weeks if your return is more complex or requires additional checks
However, during busy periods like January (Self Assessment deadline) or April (end of the tax year), delays are common.
Why Might Your Refund Be Delayed?
There are a number of reasons HMRC might take longer than expected:
- Security Checks - HMRC may flag your return for additional verification to prevent fraud. These random checks can delay your refund by several weeks.
- Errors or Inconsistencies - if your tax return contains mistakes, mismatched information (such as figures not matching PAYE data), or missing documentation, HMRC may pause the process to investigate.
- Outstanding Debts - HMRC may offset your refund against any unpaid tax, student loan, or other government debts. This can lead to a reduced refund—or none at all.
- System Backlogs - Especially during peak times, HMRC’s systems and teams get overwhelmed, which causes processing delays across the board.
What You Can Do About It
If you’re facing a delay, here’s how to take action:
- Check Your Online HMRC Account - log in to your HMRC personal tax account to check that your tax return has been received, if your refund has been issued or if HMRC has sent you any messages about additional checks or missing info.
- Where's my reply - you can check here when you should receive your refund based on how and when it was requested.
- Contact HMRC - if the date on Where's my reply has passed, you can contact HMRC to chase the refund. Be sure to have your UTR (tax reference) or National Insurance number handy.
Tips to Avoid Future Delays
- File your return early to miss the busy periods
- Double-check all figures and details
- Make a note of when you should receive your refund and chase as soon as that has passed
At CJL Accountancy, we understand how stressful waiting for money you're owed can be. If your refund has been delayed or if you're unsure whether your return was filed correctly, we’re here to take the stress off your shoulders.
📩 Get in touch today
for friendly, jargon-free advice and support.
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