Form P85 HMRC Explained – Claim Tax Back When Leaving the UK

If you are leaving the UK to live or work abroad, you may have paid too much UK tax. To reclaim this, HMRC provides the P85 HMRC form. Completing the form p85 hmrc ensures you settle your tax affairs properly and may even result in a tax rebate.

What is the HMRC P85?

The hmrc p85 form is used when:

• You are leaving the UK to live abroad permanently.
• You are going to work abroad full-time for at least one tax year.
• You want to claim tax back if you paid too much while working in the UK.

This ensures HMRC adjusts your tax record, refunds any overpaid tax, and updates your residency status.

When Should You Complete the P85 HMRC Form?

You should file the p85 hmrc if:

• You are leaving the UK and will no longer be a tax resident.
• You have finished your UK employment and received a P45.
• You plan to work abroad for a full tax year or more.

Even if you are uncertain, it’s safer to complete the form p85 hmrc to prevent errors in your tax status.

How to Fill in the Form P85 HMRC

1. Download the form or or fill out on the website – https://www.gov.uk/guidance/get-your-income-tax-right-if-youre-leaving-the-uk-p85
2. Provide personal details – name, address, National Insurance number.
3. State your departure date – when you are leaving the UK.
4. Employment details – last UK job, employer, and P45 information.
5. New circumstances abroad – where you’ll live and whether you’ll work there.
6. Bank details – for any tax rebate owed by HMRC.
7. Submit the form – by post to HMRC.

Example Cases – HMRC P85

• Case 1 – Moving Abroad for Work
  A UK engineer relocating to Germany filed a hmrc p85 and received a £1,200 tax refund.
• Case 2 – Retiring Overseas
  A retiree moving to Spain completed the p85 hmrc form and avoided paying UK tax on foreign pensions.
• Case 3 – Seasonal Worker
  An individual who worked six months in the UK and returned home used the form p85 hmrc to reclaim overpaid PAYE tax.

Common Mistakes with the HMRC P85

❌ Not including a P45 from your last UK employer.
❌ Forgetting to provide foreign address details.
❌ Assuming HMRC updates residency status automatically.
❌ Delaying submission and missing rebate opportunities.

What Happens if You Don’t Submit a P85 HMRC?

• You may overpay tax and not receive a refund.
• HMRC may continue to treat you as a UK resident for tax purposes.
• Double taxation issues may arise abroad.
• Future tax disputes with HMRC become more likely.

Tips for Completing the HMRC P85 Form

✅ Always attach your P45 from your last UK employer.
✅ Submit the form as soon as possible after leaving.
✅ Keep a copy for your records.
✅ Seek professional help if your tax situation is complex (e.g. multiple incomes, property in the UK).

FAQ – HMRC P85

Q1: Can I complete the P85 form online?
Yes, HMRC offers an online version via your personal tax account.

Q2: How long does it take to process?
Most claims are processed in 6–8 weeks, but refunds may take longer.

Q3: Do I need to submit a P85 if I keep property in the UK?
Yes, as residency rules still apply. The hmrc p85 will help clarify your tax position.

Q4: Can I file a P85 without a P45?
Yes, but it may delay your application. It’s strongly recommended to include one.

Q5: Can Audit Consulting Group help me with a P85 claim?
Absolutely – we guide you through the p85 hmrc form, prepare the documents, and ensure you reclaim any overpaid tax quickly.

Why Work With Audit Consulting Group?

At Audit Consulting Group, we specialise in UK tax forms and expatriate tax matters. With us, you get:

• Full assistance in completing the hmrc p85 form.
• Faster refunds and fewer HMRC queries.
• Peace of mind when relocating abroad.

Contact us today – let us handle your P85 HMRC submission and secure your refund.

Official link to the form: https://www.gov.uk/guidance/get-your-income-tax-right-if-youre-leaving-the-uk-p85