HMRC typically processes online Self Assessment tax returns within 72 hours of submission, while paper returns can take significantly longer, sometimes up to 10 weeks during peak periods. For UK small business owners, limited company directors, freelancers, sole traders, and accounting or bookkeeping professionals, knowing that timeline helps you plan for repayments, avoid unnecessary worry, and recognise when a delay may need chasing. Tax repayments can take up to 10 working days to arrive in your bank account after HMRC processes them, and the timing can also be affected by seasonal demand, return amendments, status checks, and issues that hold processing up. If you are unsure whether you should be filing at all, see who needs to file a Self Assessment return.
Quick answers
- Online vs paper self assessment tax return: There is a significant difference in processing speed between online and paper returns.
- When does HMRC actually process returns: Although you can file your Self Assessment return from 6 April each year, HMRC does not process returns in real time throughout the year.
- How long does an HMRC refund take: Once HMRC processes your return and identifies that a repayment is due:
- How long does HMRC take to process an amendment: If you need to correct an error in a submitted return, you can file an amendment online within 12 months of the original filing deadline (so for a 2024/25 return filed by 31 January 2026, you can amend until 31 January 2027).
- Checking the status of your return using your HMRC online account: You can check the status of your self assessment tax return and any tax refund through your HMRC Personal Tax Account, whether you use your hmrc account or online tax account.
- What to do if your return is taking too long: If your online return has not been processed within 10 working days of submission, or your repayment has not arrived within the expected timeframe, contact hmrc directly if the usual processing time has passed and there is still no update.
Online vs paper self assessment tax return
There is a significant difference in processing speed between online and paper returns. Online Self Assessment returns submitted through HMRC's website or accountancy software are processed automatically and much faster than paper forms.
| Return type | Typical processing time |
|---|---|
| Online Self Assessment | 72 hours for initial processing |
| Paper Self Assessment | 6 to 10 weeks (longer January to February) |
| Amendment to an online return | Up to 12 weeks |
| Amendment to a paper return | Up to 12 weeks or longer |
When does HMRC actually process returns?
Although you can file your Self Assessment return from 6 April each year, HMRC does not process returns in real time throughout the year. HMRC processes the bulk of Self Assessment returns between October and February, with the highest volume handled in January ahead of the 31 January filing deadline.
If you file early (before September), your return for the relevant tax year may sit in queue until HMRC begins its main processing cycle. This does not affect the accuracy of your return or the deadline for paying any tax owed. Filing well before the January deadline or self assessment deadline can also help you avoid busy periods, as returns sent close to the assessment deadline may see slower refunds because HMRC is handling higher volumes.
How long does an HMRC refund take?
Once HMRC processes your return and identifies that a repayment is due:
For online returns, an hmrc refund usually arrives within 5 working days; this is what HMRC aims for once your return has been processed, and you can check your refund status in your account.
Repayments by cheque take longer, typically 4 to 6 weeks.
If HMRC carries out security checks before issuing a refund, these can add several weeks to refund processing times.
You can update your bank details for repayments through your Personal Tax Account to ensure HMRC usually sends an hmrc tax refund by bank transfer to the correct account held on file.
How long does HMRC take to process an amendment?
If you need to correct an error in a submitted return, you can file an amendment online within 12 months of the original filing deadline (so for a 2024/25 return filed by 31 January 2026, you can amend until 31 January 2027). Amendments typically take up to 12 weeks to be processed. During peak periods such as January and February, this can be longer.
Checking the status of your return using your HMRC online account
You can check the status of your self assessment tax return and any tax refund through your HMRC Personal Tax Account, whether you use your hmrc account or online tax account. In the self assessment section of the HMRC account or hmrc app, you can review the return status, tax calculation, and whether a repayment has been issued. The account will show whether your return has been received, if it is under review, or if a repayment has been issued, which means HMRC has either logged it, is still checking it, or has processed it and updated the balance in the assessment section.
What to do if your return is taking too long
If your online return has not been processed within 10 working days of submission, or your repayment has not arrived within the expected timeframe, contact hmrc directly if the usual processing time has passed and there is still no update. Before calling, check your Personal Tax Account and secure messages to confirm the return has been received. If you can see it has been received, call the Self Assessment helpline on 0300 200 3310 and have your unique taxpayer reference and national insurance number ready.
Why HMRC might delay processing your return
Common reasons for delays include Self Assessment peak demand, and HMRC may also pause a repayment for security checks or further checks before releasing it:
High volumes around the January filing deadline can affect processing times
A discrepancy between the information in your return and data HMRC holds from other sources
A repayment being held for security verification (particularly for first-time filers or unusually large repayments), and security checks can delay refunds by several weeks
An outstanding compliance check or enquiry on your account
Bank details not held or not matching HMRC records, with outdated bank details being a common cause of unnecessary delays
HMRC aims to process VAT returns within 30 days, while corporation tax and other cases may take longer if further checks are needed.