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This site provides general information only and does not constitute legal, financial, or professional advice.

Important: This website provides general information for directors of companies registered in England and Wales. Different laws and procedures apply in Scotland and Northern Ireland.

If this sounds like you

I may not be able to make payroll

A missed or uncertain payroll is a serious cash-flow warning that deserves immediate attention.

You may recognise this

  • Payroll depends on a receipt that may not arrive.
  • Wages are being funded by delayed supplier or tax payments.
  • You are considering paying some staff but not others.

What to do now

  • Confirm the exact funding gap and payment date.
  • Protect accurate employee and payroll records.
  • Get advice promptly if full payment is doubtful.

What to avoid

  • Waiting until payroll day to investigate.
  • Taking deposits or credit without considering whether obligations can be met.
  • Making selective payments without understanding the consequences.

Useful information to gather

Do not wait for everything to be perfect. Start with what is readily available.

  • Payroll total and due date
  • Bank balance and expected receipts
  • Debtors most likely to pay
  • Essential payments due

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?

Leave your name, phone number and email address. Someone from our support team will contact you by the end of the next working day.

Submitting this form does not commit you to a formal insolvency process or to appointing anyone.

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.