DMBM200100 - Payment processing and accounting: Payment methods: Contents

The following table and text describe the payment methods available to HMRC customers and identify those accepted as e-payments.

E-payments are HMRC’s preferred payment method as they are more efficient and secure than other methods. A common view often held by customers is that e-payments are only made over the telephone or internet. They do not always realise, for example, that paying at their bank or at the Post Office is classified as electronic because the credit is transferred to HMRC electronically.

Every opportunity should be taken to encourage customers to pay electronically. When dealing with customers you should explain the Department’s reasons for preferring the use of e-payments and emphasise that paying electronically is cheaper, quicker, more secure and ensures that customer records are updated promptly.