The Time to Pay framework
Time to Pay (TTP) is HMRC's formal name for an agreed instalment plan for tax owed. Rather than paying in a single lump sum, you spread the debt over 6-12 months (sometimes longer for larger cases).
TTP is available for most types of tax debt: Self Assessment, VAT, PAYE, Corporation Tax. Each type has slightly different rules and thresholds.
Interest is charged during the TTP period (currently 7.5% and rising with base rate). This is much less than the equivalent late-payment surcharges.
Online self-service Time to Pay
For Self Assessment debts of up to £30,000, you can set up TTP online through your Government Gateway account. You need to have submitted your tax return, be within 60 days of the payment deadline, and be able to complete the payment within 12 months.
The online tool is straightforward. It asks about affordability and proposes a plan. If you accept, the plan is agreed instantly.
For larger debts or other tax types, you need to call HMRC's Payment Support Service (0300 200 3835).
What happens after TTP is agreed
You make the agreed monthly payments by direct debit. HMRC does not add penalties (as long as the plan is followed) but interest continues to accrue.
Provided you meet all payments, the debt is cleared at the end of the plan and no further action is taken.
If TTP is not affordable
If you cannot afford any Time to Pay HMRC will consider, HMRC will not simply write off the debt. You would need to consider other routes: a formal debt solution (DRO, IVA, bankruptcy), or in extreme cases hardship-based relief.