How to Pay Your Self Assessment Tax Bill Before 31 January
With the deadline approaching, here are all the ways to pay your Self Assessment tax bill — including the HMRC app, which saw a 65% increase in use this year.
The Self Assessment deadline is 31 January 2026. If you haven't paid yet, here are all the ways to settle your tax bill — and what happens if you need more time.
Payment Methods
| Method | Processing time | Available |
|---|---|---|
| HMRC app | Same day | 24/7 |
| Online bank transfer | Same or next day | 24/7 |
| Direct Debit | 3-5 working days | Set up online |
| Debit/credit card online | Same day | 24/7 |
| At your bank | 3 working days | Branch hours |
Fastest option: Pay through the HMRC app or online banking for same-day processing.
Using the HMRC App
The HMRC app has seen a 65% increase in Self Assessment payments this year — 339,490 customers used it between April 2025 and January 2026.
What you can do in the app:
- Pay your Self Assessment bill instantly
- View your Unique Taxpayer Reference (UTR)
- Check your tax calculation
- See your employment income history
- Find your National Insurance number
To get the app: Search "HMRC app" on GOV.UK or download from your app store.
Key Dates
| Date | What happens |
|---|---|
| 31 January 2026 | Filing and payment deadline |
| 30 January 2026 | HMRC phone lines close (reopen 2 February) |
| 31 January 2026 | Webchat available (Saturday only) |
If you need help on the final weekend, use HMRC's webchat — phone support won't be available.
Can't Pay in Full?
If you owe less than £30,000, you can set up a Time to Pay arrangement online:
- File your tax return first
- Go to Set up a Self Assessment payment plan
- Choose monthly payments over up to 12 months
- Set up Direct Debit
You'll still pay interest on the outstanding amount, but you'll avoid late payment penalties.
Help Available 24/7
Even if HMRC phone lines are busy, you can access:
- YouTube tutorials on completing your return
- Recorded webinars covering common questions
- Digital assistant for quick answers
- Step-by-step guides on GOV.UK
Late Payment Penalties
If you miss the deadline without a payment plan:
| When | Penalty |
|---|---|
| 30 days late | 5% of tax unpaid |
| 6 months late | Another 5% |
| 12 months late | Another 5% |
Plus interest on all late payments (currently around 7.5% per year).
Information accurate as of 12 January 2026. Verify current details on GOV.UK.