Further move towards dealing with HMRC electronically

HMRC have for some time been keen for taxpayers to make their tax payments electronically.  They have recently updated their guidance to show that from 15 December 2017 it will no longer be possible for taxpayers to pay self-assessment tax, or in fact any other type of tax, directly at the Post Office.

This is surely another push towards dealing with HMRC electronically, as other methods of payment include using online banking, payment by direct debit and paying online using a debit or credit card . However this could backfire as many of those currently making their tax payments in person at the Post Office are those who are uncomfortable using technology, and so HMRC may find that they are in fact receipt of more cheques come the main self-assessment tax payment deadline in January.  This in turn could lead to more interest charges due to the time delay from posting the cheque to it clearing in HMRC’s account; the warning  – get your tax affairs in order as soon as you are able to so that you are able to plan to make your tax payment in good time.

Disclaimer - All information in this post was correct at time of writing.