When it comes to managing your tax obligations, knowing how and when to make payments is crucial. Whether you’re handling Corporation Tax, VAT, PAYE or your own personal tax bill, understanding the deadlines and procedures can help you avoid unnecessary penalties and keep your business running smoothly.
Below, we’ve outlined the key payment methods and timings for the 2025/26 tax year across all the major tax areas our clients most frequently ask about.
How Do I Pay My Corporation Tax?
Corporation Tax payments are due nine months and one day after the end of your accounting period. So, if your accounting year ends on 31 December 2025, your Corporation Tax must be paid by 1 October 2026.
Prior to this deadline, HMRC will usually send a payslip by post, which includes your company’s unique payment reference and account details. You can make payment to one of the two HMRC accounts listed below, HMRC Cumbernauld is preferred if you’re unsure:
| Account Name |
Sort Code |
Account Number |
| HMRC Cumbernauld |
08-32-10 |
12001039 |
| HMRC Shipley |
08-32-10 |
12001020 |
Payment methods include:
- Telephone or online banking
- CHAPS or BACS
- Online payment using a corporate debit or credit card (note: card payments incur a fee)
- In-person payment at a bank or building society
Payment Reference:
This is your 10-digit Corporation Tax UTR followed by a 7-digit suffix identifying the accounting period. It changes every year, so always double-check before paying.
How Do I Pay My Corporation Tax for a New Company?
If your company is newly formed, the first accounting period often spans more than 12 months, but Corporation Tax returns can only cover up to 12 months. This means you may need to:
Example:
Company incorporated on 10 March 2025, with first accounts ending 31 March 2026.
Use the same payment methods and accounts as above, ensuring each payment uses the correct reference code.
If you need help navigating this, we’re happy to support you through the process.
How Do I Pay My VAT?
VAT is normally reported quarterly, and both the return and payment are due one month and seven days after the end of the VAT period. For example, if your quarter ends on 30 June 2025, your payment and return must be submitted by 7 August 2025.
HMRC VAT Account Details:
| Account Name |
Sort Code |
Account Number |
| HMRC VAT |
08-32-00 |
11963155 |
Payment methods include:
-
Telephone or online banking
-
CHAPS or BACS
-
Online via corporate debit/credit card (fees apply)
-
Direct Debit (recommended – taken 3 working days after deadline)
Payment Reference:
Use your VAT registration number as the reference. This is shown on your VAT certificate.
HMRC imposes surcharges of up to 15% for late payment, so timely submission is essential.
How Do I Pay My PAYE?
PAYE payments are usually made monthly. Submissions to HMRC must be made by the 19th of the following tax month, with payment due by the 22nd if paying electronically.
Example: For wages paid in June 2025, the payment must reach HMRC by 22 July 2025.
PAYE Account Details:
| Account Name |
Sort Code |
Account Number |
| HMRC Cumbernauld |
08-32-10 |
12001039 |
Payment Reference:
This is your 13-character PAYE Accounts Office reference followed by 4 digits that represent the tax year and month (e.g. “2603” for June 2025 – the third month of the 2025/26 tax year).
Payment options include:
How Do I Pay My Personal Tax?
Personal tax liabilities for the 2025/26 tax year (which ends on 5 April 2026) are normally due by 31 January 2027.
If your liability is over £1,000 and you haven’t already paid 80% of what’s due, HMRC will ask you to make two payments on account towards the following year:
-
First: 31 January 2027
-
Second: 31 July 2027
Each payment on account is half your most recent tax bill. Once your actual liability is known, a balancing payment (or refund) is calculated.
Example:
If your tax bill for 2025/26 is £4,000:
-
Pay £4,000 by 31 January 2027 (for 2025/26)
-
Plus £2,000 (first payment on account for 2026/27)
-
Then £2,000 again by 31 July 2027 (second payment on account)
Payment Account Details:
| Account Name |
Sort Code |
Account Number |
| HMRC Cumbernauld |
08-32-10 |
12001039 |
| HMRC Shipley |
08-32-10 |
12001020 |
Payment Reference:
Use your 10-digit Unique Taxpayer Reference (UTR) followed by a ‘K’. This can be found on HMRC letters relating to your personal tax.
Top Tip:
If you believe your next year’s income will be lower, file your return early before 31 July to reduce your second payment on account.
Need Help?
Whether you’re paying tax for the first time or managing several obligations at once, we know it can feel overwhelming. At Ascentis Accountants, we specialise in helping business owners, directors and individuals stay compliant, plan ahead, and avoid unnecessary stress.
If you need help with this, or with other advice, then please get in touch with our accounting team.