HMRC has provided clarity on when taxpayers can expect their refunds to be paid, following a customer's complaint about delays. The taxpayer reported waiting over five weeks for a self-assessment repayment, despite the advertised aim of two weeks.
In response, HMRC explained that some refunds undergo additional security checks, which can take six to eight weeks in total from the date of request. The customer was advised to monitor the status after this period and contact HMRC if no update appears.
Taxpayers can check if they are owed a refund via the Government website or claim through their personal tax account. The account also displays tax codes, income tax estimates, and state pension projections.
HMRC also reminded individuals to review their National Insurance record for gaps, as the deadline to top up contributions back to 2006/2007 ends in April. The full state pension, currently £221.20 per week, will rise to £230.25 from April, requiring 35 years of NI contributions.
