Index of the Article:
3️⃣ Part 3: What Happens If You Owe Tax in a P800 Notice?
6️⃣ Summary of the Most Important Points of the Article
7️⃣ FAQs
Audio Summary of the Most Important Points About HMRC P800 Refund:
Understanding the P800 Tax Refund – An Overview for UK Taxpayers
If you're a UK taxpayer, you may have heard about the P800 tax calculation notice issued by HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC). This official document plays a crucial role in informing individuals whether they have overpaid or underpaid income tax in a given tax year.
In this first section, we'll break down the P800 refund system, why it exists, how it works, and why it matters to taxpayers. We’ll also cover some key statistics, updated figures for January 2025, and insights into how tax overpayments and underpayments occur.
What is a P800 Tax Refund?
A P800 notice is a letter sent by HMRC that informs you whether you’ve paid too much or too little tax in the last tax year (which runs from 6 April to 5 April each year).
If you’ve overpaid, you are eligible for a tax refund.
If you’ve underpaid, HMRC will inform you of the amount you owe and how to pay it.
This calculation applies only to those who pay tax through the Pay As You Earn (PAYE) system, which includes:
✅ Employees
✅ Pensioners
If you file Self Assessment tax returns, you won’t receive a P800, as your tax calculations are already handled through that process.
How Many People Receive a P800 Notice?
According to HMRC, approximately 7 million P800 notices are issued each year. These include both refunds and demands for underpaid tax.
Recent reports indicate that in the 2023/24 tax year, more than 5.5 million people received P800 refunds, while around 1.5 million were informed of unpaid tax obligations.
✅ Total P800 notices issued annually: 7 million
✅ People eligible for a refund: ~5.5 million
✅ People owing additional tax: ~1.5 million
These numbers fluctuate depending on tax code adjustments, employment changes, and government tax policy updates.
Why Do Overpayments and Underpayments Happen?
You might be wondering: why doesn’t HMRC get my tax right in the first place? The answer lies in the PAYE system and the complexity of tax codes.
Here are some common reasons why you might overpay or underpay tax:
Common Reasons for Overpayment (Refund Due)
1️⃣ Wrong Tax Code
If HMRC assigns you the wrong tax code, you may pay more tax than necessary.
For example, emergency tax codes (like BR, 0T, or D0) often lead to overpayments.
2️⃣ Changing Jobs Mid-Year
If you switch employers and don’t provide a P45, your new employer may deduct tax at a higher rate.
3️⃣ Multiple Jobs or Pensions
If you have more than one job or receive both a salary and a pension, HMRC may have miscalculated your tax-free allowance.
4️⃣ Work Expenses and Benefits Not Accounted For
If you are eligible for tax relief on expenses (e.g., uniform costs, travel for work) but didn’t claim them, you might have paid extra tax.
5️⃣ Redundancy Payments or Other One-Off Earnings
Sometimes, tax is deducted incorrectly when you receive redundancy pay or a bonus.
Common Reasons for Underpayment (Tax Owed to HMRC)
1️⃣ Incorrect Tax Code
If HMRC assigns you a tax code that gives you too much tax-free allowance, you may underpay tax.
2️⃣ Job or Pension Overlap
If you start a new job without informing HMRC, they may assume you have only one source of income, leading to an underpayment.
3️⃣ State Pension Tax Not Deducted
The State Pension is taxable, but HMRC does not automatically deduct tax from it. If it exceeds your Personal Allowance, you may owe tax.
4️⃣ Benefits-in-Kind (Company Perks)
If you receive workplace benefits (such as a company car or private healthcare), but your tax code doesn’t account for them correctly, you may owe tax.
5️⃣ Employment and Support Allowance (ESA) or Jobseeker’s Allowance (JSA)
These benefits are taxable, but tax is not always deducted correctly at source, leading to underpayments.
How and When HMRC Sends P800 Notices
HMRC begins reviewing tax calculations after the end of the tax year on 5 April. If they find a discrepancy, they issue P800 notices between June and November of the same year.
Key Timeline for P800 Notices (2024/25 Tax Year)
Tax Year | Review Period | P800 Sent Between |
2023/24 | April–June 2024 | June–November 2024 |
2024/25 | April–June 2025 | June–November 2025 |
If you are due a refund, HMRC will notify you first before issuing the payment. If you owe tax, they will give you details on how to settle your bill.
How to Check If You Are Owed a Refund
Even if HMRC doesn’t send you a P800, you can check if you have overpaid tax by:
🔹 Logging into your Personal Tax Account on GOV.UK (Check Here)
🔹 Checking your P60 or P45 forms from your employer
🔹 Reviewing your tax code on your payslip
What Happens If You Are Due a Refund?
If your P800 states that you overpaid tax, you can claim your refund:
1️⃣ Online via GOV.UK (Fastest method)
Use your Personal Tax Account to request the refund.
HMRC usually processes payments within 5–10 working days.
2️⃣ By Cheque (If Online Claim Not Made)
If you don’t claim online, HMRC will automatically send a cheque to your registered address within 4–6 weeks.
✅ Refund payment methods:
Direct bank transfer (if claimed online)
Cheque sent via post (if not claimed online)
What Happens If You Owe HMRC Money?
If your P800 states that you have underpaid tax, HMRC will inform you of the next steps.
1️⃣ For Underpayments Below £3,000
HMRC will adjust your tax code in the next tax year.
The tax owed will be deducted gradually from your salary or pension.
2️⃣ For Underpayments Above £3,000
You will need to make a one-off payment to HMRC.
This can be done via bank transfer, card payment, or cheque.
💡 Pro Tip: Always check your tax code when you receive a P800 to ensure that it reflects your correct income and allowances.
A P800 notice can be good or bad news—either a tax refund is coming your way, or you owe HMRC some money. Understanding how these refunds and underpayments occur helps taxpayers stay on top of their finances and avoid surprises.
How to Claim Your P800 Refund – Step-by-Step Guide
Now that we’ve covered what a P800 tax calculation is and why you might receive one, it’s time to break down the refund process step by step. If you've overpaid tax, you’ll want to claim your refund as soon as possible. In this section, we’ll cover:
✅ How to check if you’re eligible for a refund
✅ How to claim your P800 refund online
✅ What happens if you don’t claim online
✅ Common mistakes that delay refunds
✅ How to contact HMRC if something is wrong
Step 1: Confirm Your P800 Notice Is Genuine
Before doing anything, make sure the P800 letter you received is real. Scammers often send fake tax refund notifications to trick people into handing over their bank details.
How to Identify a Genuine HMRC P800 Letter
1️⃣ Official Letterhead
The letter should come on official HMRC paper with the HMRC logo.
2️⃣ No Immediate Payment Request
HMRC never asks for payment details via email, text, or phone call. If you get a P800 via email or SMS, it’s a scam.
Refunds are always claimed via the official GOV.UK website or sent by cheque.
3️⃣ Check the Return Address
The letter will be from HM Revenue and Customs, United Kingdom.
If the address seems suspicious, cross-check it on GOV.UK.
4️⃣ Verify Online
You can log into your Personal Tax Account at GOV.UK to confirm if HMRC has issued you a P800.
Step 2: Check If You Are Eligible for a Refund
Once you've confirmed the P800 is legitimate, check the amount of tax refund stated in the letter.
How to Check Your Tax Status Online
🔹 Log into your Personal Tax Account via GOV.UK
🔹 Go to the Tax Summary section
🔹 Review your total income and tax paid for the year
🔹 Compare it with your P60 (from your employer) or P45 (if you left a job that year)
🔹 If the amount of tax paid is more than the amount owed, you’re due a P800 refund.
Step 3: How to Claim Your P800 Refund Online
The fastest way to get your tax refund is by claiming it online through the HMRC website. Here’s how:
Online Refund Process (Fastest Method)
1️⃣ Go to the official HMRC website
Visit the Tax Overpayments and Underpayments page.
2️⃣ Sign into your Personal Tax Account
Use your Government Gateway ID to log in.
If you don’t have an account, you’ll need to register (this takes around 10 minutes).
3️⃣ Check your tax calculation
HMRC will display your P800 tax refund details.
If the refund amount matches your letter, proceed to the next step.
4️⃣ Choose your refund method
You can request the refund to be paid directly into your bank account.
Provide your sort code and account number carefully to avoid errors.
5️⃣ Submit your claim
HMRC will process your request and issue a refund within 5–10 working days.
You will receive a confirmation email once your request has been submitted.
Alternatively, you can claim a P800 tax refund through their online portal.
Online Claim Advantages:
✔️ Faster processing (5–10 working days)
✔️ Direct bank transfer (instead of waiting for a cheque)
✔️ Ability to track your refund status
Step 4: What Happens If You Don’t Claim Online?
If you don’t claim your P800 refund online within 45 days, HMRC will automatically send a cheque to your registered address.
Cheque Refund Process (Slower Method)
If you don’t request an online refund, HMRC will issue a cheque refund by post.
Cheques take 4–6 weeks to arrive.
The cheque will be sent to the address HMRC has on file for you.
Issues That Can Delay Cheque Refunds:
❌ Old Address on File – If you've moved house and didn’t update your address with HMRC, your cheque may go to your old address.
❌ Lost Cheque – If your cheque gets lost in the post, you’ll need to contact HMRC for a replacement.
❌ Bank Processing Delays – Some banks take up to 10 working days to process cheque deposits.
💡 Pro Tip: If possible, claim your refund online to avoid delays.
Step 5: Common Mistakes That Delay Your P800 Refund
To ensure you get your refund quickly, avoid these common mistakes:
🚫 Incorrect Bank Details
If you enter the wrong sort code or account number, your refund could be delayed or even lost.
🚫 Not Checking Your Tax Code
If you frequently receive P800 refunds, you may be on the wrong tax code.
Check your latest payslip to ensure you’re on the correct code.
🚫 Failing to Keep Records
Always keep copies of your P60s, P45s, and P800 letters.
If HMRC requests additional verification, these documents will be essential.
🚫 Ignoring Your P800 Letter
Some people assume HMRC will automatically send their refund without action.
You must claim online if you want a faster refund.
Step 6: What to Do If Your P800 Refund Is Incorrect
If you believe your P800 tax calculation is wrong, you should contact HMRC as soon as possible.
How to Contact HMRC About a P800 Error
📞 Call HMRC’s Income Tax Helpline: 0300 200 3300 (Monday–Friday, 8am–6pm)
📩 Send a message via your Personal Tax Account
Common P800 Errors That Need to Be Fixed:
✔️ Wrong income figures (e.g., HMRC used outdated salary info)
✔️ Incorrect tax deductions (e.g., missing tax-free allowances)
✔️ Your employer submitted incorrect payroll information
💡 Pro Tip: Always check your P800 details against your payslips, P60, or P45 before calling HMRC.
Getting a P800 refund can be a relief, but only if you claim it correctly and on time.
Key Takeaways:
Always verify your P800 notice to avoid scams.
The fastest way to get your refund is through online banking transfer via GOV.UK.
If you don’t claim online, HMRC will send a cheque within 4–6 weeks.
Check your tax code to avoid overpaying again in the future.
What Happens If You Owe Tax in a P800 Notice?
Receiving a P800 notice isn’t always good news. Sometimes, instead of informing you of a refund, HMRC tells you that you’ve underpaid tax and now owe money.
In this section, we’ll cover:
✅ Why you might owe tax in a P800 notice
✅ How to check if the tax demand is correct
✅ Ways to pay your underpaid tax
✅ How to avoid penalties and late fees
✅ What to do if you can’t afford to pay
Why Does HMRC Say I Owe Tax?
If HMRC sends you a P800 notice stating that you owe tax, it means they have reviewed your tax records and found that you paid too little in the last tax year.
This can happen for several reasons:
1️⃣ Incorrect Tax Code
One of the most common causes of tax underpayment is an incorrect tax code.
If HMRC assigned you too many tax-free allowances, you may have been underpaying throughout the year.
💡 Example: John started a second job in May 2024, but his employer used his full
Personal Allowance (£12,570) instead of applying BR (Basic Rate) tax.
John underpaid tax for several months.
In June 2025, he received a P800 notice informing him that he owes £1,200.
2️⃣ Multiple Jobs or Pensions
If you work more than one job or receive multiple pensions, your tax calculations may be incorrect.
The PAYE system sometimes fails to account for total earnings across different sources.
💡 Example: Sarah receives both a work pension (£9,000 per year) and part-time job salary (£15,000 per year).
HMRC only taxed her salary but didn’t tax her pension properly.
At the end of the tax year, she owed £800 in unpaid tax.
3️⃣ State Pension and Other Benefits
The State Pension is taxable, but tax is not deducted automatically.
If your total income (salary + pension) exceeds the tax-free Personal Allowance (£12,570 for 2024/25), you may owe tax.
Benefits like Jobseeker’s Allowance (JSA) and Employment & Support Allowance (ESA) are also taxable.
💡 Example: Mark’s State Pension was £14,000 per year, but he didn’t realise that this was taxable.
He assumed he had no tax to pay, but HMRC later issued a P800 notice for £300 owed.
4️⃣ Company Benefits (Benefits-in-Kind)
If you receive perks from your employer, such as a company car, private healthcare, or interest-free loans, these are taxable.
If your tax code doesn’t reflect these benefits, HMRC may send you a P800 with tax owed.
💡 Example: Emma’s company gave her a hybrid company car in 2024.
The taxable benefit was £4,500, but HMRC didn’t update her tax code.
In June 2025, she received a P800 demanding £900 in unpaid tax.
5️⃣ Redundancy Pay or One-Off Payments
Redundancy payments over £30,000 are taxable.
Some people accidentally underpay tax on bonuses, commissions, or stock options.
💡 Example: Daniel was made redundant in December 2024 and received £40,000 in redundancy pay.
The first £30,000 was tax-free, but the extra £10,000 was taxable.
His employer didn’t deduct enough tax, and HMRC issued a P800 for £2,000 owed.
How to Check If Your P800 Tax Bill Is Correct
Before paying, double-check that HMRC’s tax calculation is accurate.
Steps to Verify Your Tax Bill
1️⃣ Compare your P800 with your payslips and P60/P45
Look at the total tax deducted vs. tax owed.
2️⃣ Log into your Personal Tax Account
Go to GOV.UK and review your tax records.
3️⃣ Check your tax code
If your tax code was wrong, HMRC might have miscalculated.
4️⃣ Look for missing income
Did HMRC miss any job, pension, or benefit income?
5️⃣ Contact HMRC if something doesn’t add up
Call 0300 200 3300 if you suspect an error.
How to Pay HMRC for P800 Tax Owed
If you agree with the amount owed, you’ll need to pay HMRC.
1️⃣ If You Owe Less Than £3,000
HMRC adjusts your tax code to collect the tax automatically.
This means your monthly salary or pension payments will be reduced in the next tax year.
💡 Example: You owe £1,200. HMRC spreads this across 12 months by reducing your tax-free allowance by £1,200.
You pay £100 extra per month through PAYE.
2️⃣ If You Owe More Than £3,000
You must pay HMRC directly.
Payment methods:
✅ Online Bank Transfer (Faster)
✅ Debit or Credit Card
✅ Direct Debit
✅ Cheque by Post
💡 Pro Tip: Use HMRC’s Payment Portal to pay quickly.
Can’t Afford to Pay? What to Do Next
If you can’t afford to pay your P800 tax bill, don’t ignore it. HMRC offers:
1️⃣ Time to Pay (TTP) Arrangements
If you owe over £3,000, you can apply for a monthly payment plan.
Call HMRC or apply via GOV.UK.
2️⃣ Tax Code Adjustments (For Smaller Debts)
If your debt is under £3,000, HMRC will automatically adjust your tax code.
3️⃣ Hardship Considerations
If you’re on low income or benefits, HMRC may reduce payments or offer delayed repayment plans.
📞 Call HMRC at 0300 200 3822 to discuss options.
What Happens If You Don’t Pay?
Ignoring your P800 tax bill can lead to:
❌ Late Payment Penalties – HMRC may add 5% penalties after 30 days.
❌ Debt Collection Action – HMRC can send bailiffs or deduct from wages.
❌ Interest Charges – HMRC charges daily interest on unpaid tax.
💡 Pro Tip: Even if you can’t pay in full, contact HMRC to set up a payment plan before the deadline.
Owing tax to HMRC can be stressful, but knowing your options helps you stay in control.
Key Takeaways:
Always check your P800 tax bill for errors.
If you owe under £3,000, HMRC adjusts your tax code to collect it.
If you owe over £3,000, you must pay HMRC directly.
If you can’t afford to pay, set up a Time to Pay (TTP) plan.
Ignoring HMRC can result in penalties, interest, and debt collection.
P800 Refund Calculator
How This Calculator Works:
1️⃣ Users enter their total income and tax paid during the tax year.
2️⃣ They select their tax code, which affects how much tax they should have paid.
3️⃣ The script calculates the correct tax owed based on the 2024/25 UK tax bands.
4️⃣ It compares the calculated tax to the tax already paid and determines:
A refund amount (if overpaid)
An outstanding tax bill (if underpaid)
A message confirming no additional tax is due (if tax paid matches tax owed)
5️⃣ The result is displayed in bold text inside the fixed-size border.
How to Prevent P800 Underpayments and Overpayments in the Future
While receiving a P800 refund can feel like a bonus, and owing HMRC money can be stressful, the best situation is to avoid tax miscalculations altogether.
In this section, we’ll cover:
✅ How to check your tax code to prevent errors
✅ What to do if you think you're overpaying or underpaying tax
✅ How to update HMRC with changes in income or employment
✅ The importance of keeping accurate tax records
✅ How to claim tax reliefs and allowances to reduce your tax bill
Check Your Tax Code Regularly
One of the biggest reasons people overpay or underpay tax is an incorrect tax code. Your tax code determines how much tax-free allowance you get before tax is deducted from your salary or pension.
How to Find Your Tax Code
You can check your tax code on:
✅ Your payslip
✅ Your P60 (annual statement from your employer)
✅ Your P45 (if you’ve left a job)
✅ Your HMRC Personal Tax Account (Check Here)
Understanding Your Tax Code
A typical UK tax code looks like this:
Tax Code | Meaning |
1257L | Standard tax code (Personal Allowance of £12,570) |
BR | Basic rate tax (20%) on all earnings (used for second jobs) |
D0 | Higher rate tax (40%) on all earnings |
D1 | Additional rate tax (45%) on all earnings |
K | Additional tax owed (e.g., underpayments or benefits-in-kind) |
💡 Example: Emma works two jobs. Her main job has a 1257L tax code, but her second job mistakenly also uses 1257L instead of BR.
HMRC assumes she has two tax-free allowances, causing her to underpay tax.
At the end of the tax year, she receives a P800 demanding £850 in unpaid tax.
What to Do If Your Tax Code Is Wrong
If your tax code looks incorrect, you should:
📞 Call HMRC at 0300 200 3300
💻 Update it via your Personal Tax Account (Update Here)
📩 Inform your employer or pension provider
Update HMRC When Your Income Changes
Many P800 issues happen because HMRC is working with outdated income information. If your financial situation changes, you must tell HMRC to avoid tax miscalculations.
When to Inform HMRC
✅ Starting a new job – Your employer should send a P45, but it's best to check.
✅ Getting a pay rise – If your salary increases, your tax code may need updating.
✅ Switching to self-employment – If you leave PAYE work, you may need to register for Self Assessment.
✅ Receiving multiple incomes – If you start a second job or claim a pension, you should check that tax is deducted correctly.
✅ Claiming work-related expenses – If you spend money on job-related costs, you may be eligible for tax relief.
💡 Example: David started freelancing alongside his full-time job but didn’t tell HMRC.
He continued paying tax only through PAYE.
At the end of the tax year, HMRC issued a P800 for £1,200 in unpaid tax.
If he had updated his tax code, HMRC could have adjusted deductions before the year ended.
Keep Accurate Tax Records
HMRC processes millions of tax calculations each year, but mistakes happen. Keeping personal tax records ensures you can challenge incorrect P800 calculations if needed.
Documents to Keep
✅ Payslips (keep at least 2 years’ worth)
✅ P60s and P45s
✅ HMRC letters (including P800s and tax code notices)
✅ Bank statements showing tax payments
✅ Receipts for tax-deductible expenses
💡 Pro Tip: Keep digital copies of these documents. HMRC may ask for proof if you dispute a tax bill.
Claim Tax Reliefs and Allowances
Many taxpayers overpay tax simply because they don’t claim the reliefs and deductions they’re entitled to.
Common Tax Reliefs You May Be Missing
Tax Relief | Who Can Claim? | Potential Refund |
Marriage Allowance | Couples where one earns less than £12,570 | Up to £252 per year |
Work Expenses (Uniforms, Tools, Travel) | Employees who pay for job-related costs | Varies (often £60–£250 per year) |
Professional Subscriptions | Workers required to pay membership fees (e.g., nurses, accountants) | Up to £140 per year |
Working from Home Allowance | People working from home regularly | £6 per week tax-free |
Pension Contributions Relief | Employees making pension contributions | Up to 40% tax relief |
💡 Example: Sarah, a nurse, pays £100 per year for her Nursing & Midwifery Council (NMC) registration.
She forgot to claim tax relief for 4 years.
HMRC refunded her £112 (£28 per year) after she submitted a claim.
How to Claim Tax Reliefs
📞 Call HMRC at 0300 200 3300
💻 Claim online via GOV.UK (Claim Here)
📩 Include it in your Self Assessment tax return (if applicable)
Avoid Emergency Tax Codes
If you’ve changed jobs, you might be on an emergency tax code, which can lead to overpaying tax.
How to Spot an Emergency Tax Code
🚨 Emergency tax codes: 1257L W1, 1257L M1, or 1257L X
🚨 These codes mean HMRC is taxing you as if each paycheck is the start of the tax year.
How to Fix It
📞 Call HMRC and provide your new employer’s PAYE details
📩 Give your employer your P45 (or complete a Starter Checklist if you don’t have one)
💡 Example: Tom started a new job in May but didn’t provide his P45.
His first 3 months of salary had an emergency tax code, so he overpaid tax.
In August, HMRC sent him a P800 refund of £600.
If he had provided his P45 earlier, he wouldn’t have overpaid at all.
Tax miscalculations happen more often than you think, but checking your tax code and updating HMRC can prevent P800 issues.
Key Takeaways:
Check your tax code regularly on payslips and GOV.UK.
Update HMRC if your income changes (new job, pay rise, second job).
Claim tax reliefs to reduce your tax bill.
Keep accurate tax records in case you need to dispute a P800 notice.
Avoid emergency tax codes when changing jobs.
P800 Refund Scams and How to Protect Yourself from Fraud
As more people become aware of P800 tax refunds, scammers have also taken advantage of the system. Every year, thousands of UK taxpayers fall victim to HMRC tax refund scams, often losing their personal details, bank information, or even money.
In this final section, we will cover:
✅ How to spot fake P800 refund scams
✅ Common types of HMRC tax scams
✅ How to verify a genuine HMRC tax refund
✅ What to do if you receive a suspicious message
✅ How to report tax scams to HMRC
How Do P800 Tax Refund Scams Work?
Scammers impersonate HMRC to trick taxpayers into sharing sensitive information. They send fake emails, texts, or phone calls claiming that the recipient is owed a tax refund or needs to make an urgent payment.
These scams can be convincing, especially because millions of UK taxpayers receive genuine P800 tax notices each year.
💡 Example:Rachel receives an email from "tax-refunds@hmrcgov.uk" claiming she is owed £563.
The email asks her to "click the link and enter her bank details" to receive the refund.
She clicks the link, enters her details, and later finds £2,000 stolen from her bank account.
Common Types of HMRC Tax Scams
Scammers use various tactics to trick taxpayers into giving away personal or financial information. Here are some of the most common scams to watch out for:
1️⃣ Fake P800 Tax Refund Emails
📧 How it works: You receive an email claiming you are owed a refund. The email contains a fake link to "claim your money."
⚠ Red Flag: HMRC never sends tax refund notifications via email.
2️⃣ Scam Text Messages (Smishing)
📲 How it works: You get an SMS stating "HMRC has sent you a refund" and a link to claim it.
⚠ Red Flag: HMRC never texts people asking for bank details.
3️⃣ Phone Call Scams (Vishing)
📞 How it works: A scammer calls pretending to be from HMRC, stating that you either owe tax or are due a refund.
⚠ Red Flag: HMRC never calls demanding immediate payment or asking for your bank details.
4️⃣ WhatsApp Scams
📩 How it works: Scammers send WhatsApp messages pretending to be from HMRC.
⚠ Red Flag: HMRC does not contact taxpayers via WhatsApp.
5️⃣ Fake HMRC Websites
🌍 How it works: Scammers create fake GOV.UK websites that look real. They trick users into entering their National Insurance number and bank details.
⚠ Red Flag: Always check that the website starts with https://www.gov.uk/.
How to Identify a Genuine HMRC P800 Refund
If you receive a P800 tax refund notification, follow these steps to verify if it’s real:
Steps to Check if Your P800 Is Genuine
1️⃣ Check the sender address
A real HMRC email will come from an address ending in @gov.uk.
Scam emails may use addresses like hmrc-taxrefunds@gmail.com.
2️⃣ Log into Your Personal Tax Account
Go to GOV.UK and check if a P800 refund is listed in your account.
3️⃣ Look for official contact details
A real P800 letter will include HMRC’s official helpline number: 0300 200 3300.
4️⃣ Check if HMRC asks for payment details
HMRC never asks for your bank details via email, text, or call.
If you’re owed a refund, you must claim it yourself via GOV.UK.
What to Do If You Receive a Suspicious Message
If you suspect a scam, DO NOT click any links or provide any personal information.
✅ Delete the message immediately
✅ Do not open attachments in suspicious emails
✅ Do not respond to the scammer
✅ Verify directly with HMRC via GOV.UK
How to Report HMRC Tax Scams
If you receive a fake HMRC email, text, or call, report it immediately to help protect others.
📧 Report scam emails: phishing@hmrc.gov.uk
📲 Report scam texts: Forward the message to 60599
📞 Report scam phone calls: Call 0300 123 2040
💡 Pro Tip: If you accidentally shared your bank details with a scammer, contact your bank immediately to block transactions.
How to Protect Yourself from P800 Tax Scams
Follow these simple rules to keep your personal and financial information safe:
HMRC Will Never...
❌ Email or text you about a tax refund
❌ Call demanding immediate payment
❌ Ask for your bank details over the phone
❌ Contact you via WhatsApp
HMRC Will Always...
✅ Send tax refund notices via official letters
✅ Allow you to check your tax records online
✅ Provide secure ways to claim refunds via GOV.UK
✅ Use official contact numbers for assistance
Real-Life Example of an HMRC Scam
🔹 In 2023, thousands of taxpayers received fraudulent emails claiming they were due refunds from HMRC.
🔹 The scam emails included a fake GOV.UK link asking for National Insurance numbers and bank details.
🔹 Many victims later found money stolen from their accounts.
🔹 The scam was so widespread that HMRC issued an urgent warning to the public.
💡 Lesson Learned: Always verify tax refund claims on GOV.UK before taking action.
With millions of P800 notices issued every year, scammers have found ways to exploit taxpayer confusion.
Key Takeaways:
Always verify tax refund claims via your HMRC Personal Tax Account.
Never share personal or financial details through email, text, or phone.
Genuine HMRC tax refunds can only be claimed via GOV.UK.
If in doubt, contact HMRC directly at 0300 200 3300.
Report scams immediately to phishing@hmrc.gov.uk.
Summary of the Entire Article
We’ve covered everything you need to know about the HMRC P800 tax refund, including:
✅ What a P800 notice is and why it matters
✅ How to claim your refund safely and quickly
✅ What happens if you owe tax and how to pay HMRC
✅ How to prevent tax overpayments and underpayments
✅ How to spot and avoid P800 refund scams
By staying informed, UK taxpayers can avoid financial surprises and protect themselves from fraud. If you ever receive a P800 notice, always double-check the details before taking action.
💡 Need More Help? Visit GOV.UK for the latest HMRC tax refund updates.
Key Points About HMRC P800 Refund
1️⃣ A P800 notice from HMRC informs taxpayers if they have overpaid or underpaid tax for a specific tax year.
2️⃣ Tax overpayments often occur due to incorrect tax codes, job changes, multiple incomes, or unclaimed tax reliefs.
3️⃣ The fastest way to claim a P800 refund is through the official HMRC website, with payments processed within 5–10 working days.
4️⃣ If a refund is not claimed online, HMRC automatically sends a cheque, which can take up to 6 weeks to arrive.
5️⃣ Tax underpayments can result from incorrect tax codes, multiple income sources, or untaxed benefits like state pensions.
6️⃣ If you owe less than £3,000, HMRC usually adjusts your tax code to collect the unpaid tax gradually from your salary or pension.
7️⃣ For tax debts over £3,000, taxpayers must make direct payments to HMRC, with options for setting up payment plans if needed.
8️⃣ Checking your tax code regularly, updating HMRC about income changes, and claiming eligible tax reliefs can prevent tax miscalculations.
9️⃣ Scammers often impersonate HMRC through fake emails, texts, or calls, so taxpayers should verify tax notices via their Personal Tax Account.
🔟 Any suspicious tax-related messages should be reported to HMRC at phishing@hmrc.gov.uk or via the official HMRC website.
FAQs
Q1: Can you receive a P800 tax refund for multiple tax years at once?
Yes, if HMRC discovers that you have overpaid tax in multiple years, they may issue a P800 for each affected tax year, allowing you to claim refunds for all eligible years separately.
Q2: What should you do if you receive a P800 refund but have since moved abroad?
If you are no longer living in the UK, you should contact HMRC and provide your updated overseas address or UK bank details to ensure your refund is processed correctly.
Q3: Will receiving a P800 tax refund affect your benefits, such as Universal Credit?
A tax refund from a P800 notice is not considered income for Universal Credit purposes, so it should not affect your benefit payments. However, if the refund increases your savings above certain thresholds, it could impact means-tested benefits.
Q4: Can you claim a P800 refund on behalf of someone else?
Yes, but you need legal authorisation, such as a Power of Attorney or an HMRC-approved third-party authorisation, to claim a refund for another person.
Q5: What happens if you miss the deadline to claim a P800 tax refund?
If you do not claim your refund within four years from the end of the tax year, you may lose the right to the money, as HMRC has a strict time limit on refund claims.
Q6: How do you update your bank details with HMRC before claiming a P800 refund?
You can update your bank details through your Personal Tax Account on GOV.UK or by calling HMRC’s helpline before submitting your refund claim.
Q7: What should you do if you receive a P800 but believe the tax calculation is incorrect?
If you suspect an error, you should compare your P800 with your P60, P45, or payslips and contact HMRC at 0300 200 3300 to request a correction.
Q8: Can you receive a P800 refund if you are self-employed?
No, self-employed individuals do not receive P800 notices. Any tax overpayments must be reclaimed through the Self Assessment system instead.
Q9: Can you request a P800 calculation if you think you are owed a refund but haven't received one?
Yes, if you believe you overpaid tax but haven’t received a P800, you can contact HMRC and request a manual review of your tax records.
Q10: Does a P800 refund include interest if HMRC took too long to process it?
HMRC does not usually pay interest on P800 refunds unless the delay was due to their own administrative errors or if legal action forces compensation.
Q11: Can your P800 refund be used to offset unpaid taxes or debts owed to HMRC?
Yes, if you owe money to HMRC for previous tax years or other debts (e.g., unpaid Self Assessment tax), they may deduct the amount from your refund before issuing payment.
Q12: Can an employer request a P800 tax calculation for you?
No, an employer cannot request a P800 calculation on your behalf. However, they can provide you with your tax documents (P60, P45) to help you verify your tax records.
Q13: Can you receive a P800 refund if you are on a student visa or work visa?
Yes, if you paid too much tax while working in the UK on a visa, you can still receive a P800 refund, but you must ensure that HMRC has your current UK bank details.
Q14: What should you do if your P800 refund cheque is lost or expired?
If your cheque is lost, stolen, or expired (valid for six months), you must contact HMRC to request a replacement cheque or to arrange an online payment.
Q15: Can you get a P800 refund if you have multiple pensions?
Yes, if HMRC miscalculated the tax due on your multiple pensions, you could be eligible for a P800 refund, provided you meet the income tax refund criteria.
Q16: Will you receive a P800 refund if you have already claimed tax relief separately?
If you have already claimed a tax refund through a Self Assessment or tax relief claim, HMRC will not issue a separate P800 refund for the same overpayment.
Q17: How long does it take for a P800 refund to show in your bank account after claiming?
If you claim online, refunds are typically processed within 5 to 10 working days; if you wait for a cheque, it can take up to six weeks to arrive by post.
Q18: Can you check the status of your P800 refund after claiming it?
Yes, you can track your refund status by logging into your Personal Tax Account on GOV.UK or by calling HMRC if your refund is delayed.
Q19: Will receiving a P800 refund impact your tax code for the next year?
It depends—if the overpayment was due to a tax code error, HMRC may adjust your tax code for the following year to prevent further miscalculations.
Q20: What happens if you receive a P800 stating you owe tax, but you are now unemployed?
If you are unemployed and cannot afford to pay, you should contact HMRC immediately to discuss a payment plan or request a temporary deferral based on your financial situation.
Disclaimer:
The information provided in our articles is for general informational purposes only and is not intended as professional advice. While we strive to keep the information up-to-date and correct, My Tax Accountant makes no representations or warranties of any kind, express or implied, about the completeness, accuracy, reliability, suitability, or availability with respect to the website or the information, products, services, or related graphics contained in the articles for any purpose. Any reliance you place on such information is therefore strictly at your own risk.
We encourage all readers to consult with a qualified professional before making any decisions based on the information provided. The tax and accounting rules in the UK are subject to change and can vary depending on individual circumstances. Therefore, My Tax Accountant cannot be held liable for any errors, omissions, or inaccuracies published. The firm is not responsible for any losses, injuries, or damages arising from the display or use of this information.
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