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Tax Refund Delays: HMRC Under Fire for Slow Processing

1/17/2026

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Summary

Story summary

UK taxpayers wait more than ten months for refunds of overpaid tax and national insurance, per Guardian Money.
Self-employed Simon Hughes awaits £4,550, and pensioner Jill Eden has borrowed money while awaiting a £48,000 rebate.
HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) faces criticism for prioritizing new claims over older ones, despite investing £500 million in digital services.
HMRC acknowledged the delays and said it would investigate reported cases.

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Story summary

UK taxpayers wait more than ten months for refunds of overpaid tax and national insurance, per Guardian Money.
Self-employed Simon Hughes awaits £4,550, and pensioner Jill Eden has borrowed money while awaiting a £48,000 rebate.
HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) faces criticism for prioritizing new claims over older ones, despite investing £500 million in digital services.
HMRC acknowledged the delays and said it would investigate reported cases.