Almost every year, thousands of UK taxpayers either overpay or underpay their taxes. If this happens, HMRC will let it know by issuing P800.
This article covers everything you need to know about the P800 form, including:
- Why does the p800 form matters
- What is included in a p800 tax form
- Can you request a p800, and
- Much More…
Let’s get started!
What Is a P800 Form From HMRC?
A P800 is a tax calculation notice sent out by HMRC. It shows whether or not you have paid the right amount of tax during the tax year.
- If you have paid too much tax, your P800 will explain how to claim a refund.
- If you have paid too little, your p800 will show how HMRC plans to collect the shortfall.
The P800 is not something you apply for. HMRC issues it automatically after carrying out end-of-year checks. Usually between June and November.
Why Does the P800 Tax Form Matters?
The P800 is important because it helps HMRC settle your tax position at the end of the year. Without it many people wouldn’t know they overpaid and are due a refund. It also prevents surprises later by showing if you have underpaid. Thus, giving HMRC a way to collect it fairly.
Who Will Receive a P800 Form?
Not everyone gets a P800 each year. You will only receive one if HMRC finds that you have overpaid or underpaid. If your tax is correct, you won’t get a P800.
What is Included in a P800 Tax Form?
The P800 includes:
- The total income HMRC has recorded for you during the year.
- The amount of tax you have paid through PAYE.
- Any taxable benefits or expenses reported by your employer.
- Whether you overpaid or underpaid.
- The final calculation showing the amount due back to you or owed by you.
How Do I Know If I Am Due a P800 Refund?
1. Check Your Tax Calculation
The P800 form will clearly show if you overpaid. The amount owed to you will be displayed on the document.
2. Log In to Your HMRC Online Account
You can also check your tax summary online through your Government Gateway account to confirm whether a refund is due.
How Do I Claim a Refund From a P800?
There are two main ways to claim a refund from p800:
1. Online Refunds
- Sign in to your HMRC Personal Tax Account.
- Claim your refund directly to your bank account.
- The payment usually arrives within 5 working days.
2. Cheque Refunds
If you didn’t claim your refund online within 45 days, HMRC will send a cheque (if you’ve asked to send you a cheque). It will take 6 weeks for the cheque to arrive.
How Do I Get My P800 Online?
If you do not want to wait for the paper version, you can get your p800 online by logging into your Personal Tax Account on the HMRC website. This way you can view your p800 online as soon as it is available. You can also check if the refund is ready and claim the refund straight into your bank account.
Do I Need To Contact HMRC To Get My P800?
Usually, there’s no need to contact HMRC to get your p800 as HMRC issues P800 forms automatically. However, if you think you are due a refund but haven’t received one, it’s worth contacting HMRC.
What Happens If I Underpaid Tax on My P800?
If you owe HMRC money, the P800 will show how much. In most cases, HMRC will collect this through your tax code in the following year. That means slightly higher deductions from your salary or pension.
For larger amounts, HMRC may set up a payment plan.
I Didn’t Get A P800. Does That Mean I Can’t Claim A Tax Refund?
Not necessarily. If you believe you overpaid but did not receive a P800, you can still request a tax refund. Log in to your HMRC Personal Tax Account or call HMRC directly. Refunds can usually be claimed for up to four years.
Can I Receive Multiple P800s?
Yes. If HMRC reviews more than one tax year, you may receive more than one P800 form. Each will relate to a different tax year.
How Far Back Can You Go To Claim a P800 Refund?
You can usually claim a tax refund for up to 4 previous tax years. For example: if you are claiming a refund for the 2020-2021 tax year, add four years to 2021. You must make your claim by 5 April 2025.
What Should I Do If My P800 Is Wrong?
If you believe the calculation is incorrect:
- Double-check your payslips and P60.
- Compare them with the figures on your P800.
- Contact HMRC with evidence if there is an error.
Is a P800 the Same as a P60?
No. A P60 is a statement from your employer showing your total pay and tax for the year. A P800 is an HMRC calculation that compares that information with their records to check if you’ve paid the correct amount.
Can Self-Employed People Receive a P800?
No. P800 Forms are usually sent out to people who are earning through PAYE. In other words, to full-time employees rather than the self employed people. If you are self employed, you must complete a Self Assessment tax return instead.
Be Aware of Scams
Always be aware of scams as scammers often send texts, emails or even make calls pretending to be HMRC. HMRC will never ask for things like your bank details, PIN numbers, or any other personal payment information via text or email. Therefore, always log in to your official Government Gateway account to check if a refund is due.
Key Points To Remember About P800 Refunds
- HMRC issues P800 forms automatically.
- You will only get one if you overpaid or underpaid tax.
- You can claim refunds online or received by cheque.
- Most online refunds arrive in less than a week.
- Always check your calculation for errors.
Final Thoughts
Hopefully, you have learned what is P800 form and how to get a P800 refund from HMRC. P800 will be sent by HMRC if you overpay or underpay tax. It will tell you how to pay the tax you owe and how to get a refund.
Bear in mind that if you are registered for self-assessment you won’t receive P800. Not everyone will receive it, except those who have made a tax rebate claim.
Disclaimer: The information about What is P800 Form | How to Get a P800 Refund from HMRC? provided in this article including text and graphics. It does not intend to disregard any of the professional advice.
