Beware of HMRC delays when setting up PAYE direct debits
One of the professional accountancy bodies is warning that employers need to allow additional time to set up new variable direct debits for PAYE. Why?

HMRC’s guidance on PAYE states that employers should set up direct debits at least six working days in advance of the payment due date. Following an update on HMRC delays provided to the Institute of Chartered Accountants in England and Wales (ICAEW), it turns out that more notice is needed in order to meet the deadline. HMRC’s guidance has not been amended, but the ICAEW is warning that new variable direct debits need to be set up by:
- 10 March for PAYE due on 22 March; and
- 12 April for PAYE due on 22 April.
The recommendation is that employers set up new direct debits at least nine working days prior to the payment due date. This service is still relatively new and HMRC is working to improve the process.
Related Topics
-
Simpler Recycling rules take effect
New rules on how workplaces must sort their waste and recycling have taken effect from 31 March. What are the key changes to be aware of?
-
New CGT reporting tool
Self-assessment returns aren’t set up for the change in capital gains tax (CGT) rates on the government filing system and will require a manual adjustment for 2024/25 to ensure the correct amount is paid. Why is there a problem and can a new online tool help?
-
MONTHLY FOCUS: THE ENTERPRISE INVESTMENT SCHEME QUALIFYING CONDITIONS
The enterprise investment scheme (EIS) is a generous collection of tax reliefs aimed at encouraging private investment into relatively young companies. In this Focus, we look at the qualifying conditions relating to the investor and the issuing company that must be met in order for a claim for relief to succeed.