Payroll Deadlines in the UK: What You Can’t Afford to Miss
When it comes to payroll, timing isn’t just important—it’s everything.
Missing a deadline can lead to penalties, unnecessary stress, and unhappy employees. Yet for many small businesses, payroll deadlines can feel confusing or easy to overlook.
Here’s a simple breakdown of the key payroll deadlines you need to stay on top of—and how to avoid common mistakes.
Key Payroll Deadlines You Need to Know
1. Paying Your Employees
You must pay your employees on the agreed pay date—whether that’s weekly, fortnightly, or monthly.
Sounds obvious, but consistency matters. Late payments can quickly affect morale and trust.
2. Submitting RTI (Real Time Information)
Every time you run payroll, you must submit your Full Payment Submission (FPS) to HMRC.
This must be done:
👉 On or before your employees’ pay date
Missing this is one of the most common payroll mistakes—and can result in penalties.
3. Paying HMRC (PAYE & National Insurance)
You’ll usually need to pay HMRC:
Monthly: by the 22nd (if paying electronically)
Quarterly: if you qualify as a small employer
This includes:
PAYE
National Insurance contributions
4. Year-End Payroll Deadlines
At the end of the tax year (5 April), there are additional requirements:
Final FPS or EPS submission
Providing employees with a P60
Reporting benefits (if applicable)
These deadlines are crucial—and often overlooked.
Common Payroll Mistakes to Avoid
It’s not just about knowing the deadlines—it’s about avoiding the pitfalls.
Watch out for:
Missing RTI submissions
Incorrect employee details
Leaving payroll until the last minute
Not setting reminders for key dates
Even small errors can create bigger issues down the line.
How to Stay on Track
A few simple habits can make payroll much easier:
Set calendar reminders for key deadlines
Run payroll on the same date each period
Keep employee records up to date
Don’t leave submissions until the last minute
Or, if payroll is becoming time-consuming, it may be worth getting support to ensure everything runs smoothly.
Key Takeaways
Payroll deadlines aren’t complicated—but they do require consistency and attention to detail.
Staying organised helps you:
Stay compliant
Avoid penalties
Keep your team paid correctly and on time
If payroll is starting to feel like a burden, getting the right support in place can save time and reduce risk.
Disclaimer
The information in this article is for general guidance only and does not constitute financial, tax, or legal advice. While we aim to keep content accurate and up to date, rules and regulations can change and individual circumstances vary.
You should always seek advice from a qualified accountant or professional adviser regarding your specific situation before making any decisions.
