How to claim back tax

If you have paid too much tax on your bank or building society interest, you can claim it back.

If you have a tax office you should contact that office and tell them you believe you can claim back some tax. They will tell you what you need to do.

If you don’t have a tax office, you should complete form R40 Tax Repayment. The R40 has notes (PDF 217K) with it that will help you. If you need more help please ring our Leicester & Northants Claims Office on Tel 0845 366 7850.

Claiming tax back for earlier years

The time limit for making a claim is five years from 31 January following the 5 April end of the tax year. For example, a claim for 2003-04 must be made by 31 January 2010.

Claiming tax back for some one else

You can claim tax back on behalf of someone else if you are:

  • the parent of a child (under 16 in Scotland or under 18 in England, Wales and Northern Ireland)
  • the next of kin of someone who is incapable of managing their own affairs
  • a relative of someone who would have difficulty in making a claim, such as someone in poor health

Others who have an official status such as a guardian or someone appointed by the courts, can also claim. If you are thinking of claiming tax back for someone else please phone us on 0845 366 7850 for details about what to do next.