HMRC tax refund alert as over a million could be owed around £453

Our community members are treated to special offers, promotions and adverts from us and our partners. You can check out at any time. More info More than a million workers may be entitled to an unexpected tax rebate averaging £473 - however, they're facing a tight deadline to claim it before the opportunity disappears permanently. Brits are being encouraged to download the HMRC app to verify whether they've overpaid tax, with refunds frequently resulting from incorrect tax codes or employment changes. The alert arrives as families continue to struggle financially, with even relatively small amounts offering much-needed relief to strained household finances. £473 average rebate - but the clock is running out Employees who've paid excessive tax can recover the funds - though only within a restricted timeframe. Generally, you have four years from the conclusion of the applicable tax year to submit a claim. This means: Overpayments from 2021/22 must be claimed by April 5 2026 More recent tax years have subsequent deadlines, though time is already running short Fail to meet the deadline, and the funds are forfeited - essentially returning it to the Treasury. Who might be entitled to a refund? Rebates can occur for numerous reasons, including: Being assigned an incorrect tax code Switching employment during the year Spells of unemployment Work-related expenses not correctly accounted for Pension or redundancy payments Both employed and self-employed people can be impacted. HMRC warning: 'Don't guess, check' In a statement, HMRC said: "Received a letter saying you have a tax refund to claim? There could be an average of £473 waiting for you. "Download the HMRC app to find out how you can claim it." The official app enables users to: Check tax codes View National Insurance details Make Self Assessment payments Claim refunds swiftly One million could be impacted Estimates indicate that around one million people could be due refunds, with the average payout of £473 amounting to hundreds of millions of pounds in total. For many, this could serve as a timely financial uplift - especially as bills continue to be high. Beware of scams HMRC has also issued a stern warning about fraudsters preying on potential claimants. It emphasised that it will not contact customers about refunds via text, email, WhatsApp or phone. Any unexpected messages claiming to offer a refund should be treated with suspicion and verified directly through official channels. How to check if you're owed money You can: Wait for an official HMRC letter Check online via your personal tax account Use the HMRC app You may be able to reclaim overpaid tax on PAYE income; Pensions; Savings interest or PPI payouts; Work expenses such as fuel or uniforms. Details can be found here.