If this sounds like you
I cannot pay HMRC
What to consider when VAT, PAYE or Corporation Tax is overdue and pressure is increasing.
You may recognise this
- A payment deadline has been missed or a Time to Pay arrangement is at risk.
- New tax liabilities are arising faster than old arrears are being cleared.
- Letters, calls or enforcement warnings are becoming more serious.
What to do now
- Record every deadline and communication.
- Establish what can genuinely be paid and when.
- Seek appropriate advice before agreeing commitments the company cannot keep.
What to avoid
- Ignoring correspondence.
- Promising unaffordable payments.
- Paying HMRC without considering payroll, essential suppliers and directors’ duties.
Useful information to gather
Do not wait for everything to be perfect. Start with what is readily available.
- Current HMRC balances and letters
- A short-term cash-flow forecast
- Latest management accounts and aged creditors
Why timing matters
Earlier action can preserve time, information and choice. Waiting for certainty can allow cash, legal or creditor deadlines to decide the next step for you.
Would you like to talk about this?
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Related next steps
This page provides general information, not advice about your company or personal position. Formal deadlines may require immediate advice from a solicitor or licensed insolvency practitioner.