What to Do If Your CIS Tax Rebate Is Delayed or Rejected


For many subcontractors in the UK construction industry, a CIS tax rebate can make a huge difference to their finances. But sometimes things don’t go smoothly. Refunds may be delayed, or HMRC may even reject your claim. This can feel frustrating and worrying, especially if you were counting on that money. Knowing what steps to take can save time, stress, and lost income.

Why CIS Refunds Get Delayed

Refund delays are more common than you might think. HMRC usually processes claims within a few weeks, but problems can push this back. Common reasons include:

  • Missing or incorrect information in your return
  • Incomplete CIS deduction certificates from contractors
  • Errors in income or expense figures
  • Security checks by HMRC to confirm your identity

If you are waiting for a CIS tax refund in London, keeping your paperwork neat and accurate can make a big difference in speeding up the process.

Reasons a CIS Rebate May Be Rejected

Sometimes, HMRC may reject a CIS refund claim altogether. This usually happens when:

  • Income or deductions don’t match records from contractors
  • The claimant is not correctly registered under CIS
  • Expenses are not supported with proof (receipts or invoices)
  • Incorrect UTR (Unique Taxpayer Reference) or National Insurance numbers are used

These rejections are preventable if you check your details carefully before submission.

Steps to Take If Your Refund Is Delayed

  1. Check Your HMRC Account – Log in to your online HMRC account to see the status of your refund. Sometimes it’s already approved, but waiting for processing.
  2. Contact HMRC Directly – If the delay is longer than 8–12 weeks, call HMRC to ask for an update. Have your UTR number, National Insurance number, and claim details ready.
  3. Provide Any Requested Documents Quickly – If HMRC asks for additional proof, send it as soon as possible. The faster you respond, the sooner they can move forward.
  4. Seek Professional Help – Many subcontractors use accountants who specialise in construction refunds. They can contact HMRC on your behalf and clear up issues faster.

Workers often find that professional help with a CIS tax refund in London not only shortens delays but also reduces the chance of errors in future filings.

Steps to Take If Your Refund Is Rejected

  1. Understand the Reason – HMRC will normally send you a letter or message explaining why the claim was rejected. Read this carefully.
  2. Correct Mistakes and Re-Submit – If the rejection was due to missing documents or incorrect numbers, fix these and file again.
  3. Challenge the Decision – If you believe the rejection is unfair, you can appeal to HMRC. This requires solid evidence, such as deduction certificates or receipts.
  4. Get Expert Advice – Specialists in CIS tax refund in London know how to deal with appeals and rejected claims. Their experience can help you recover money that might otherwise be lost.

How to Avoid Delays and Rejections in the Future

  • Always collect CIS deduction statements from contractors
  • Keep expense receipts safe and organised
  • Double-check your UTR and National Insurance details
  • File your return as early as possible
  • Consider using a professional accountant to prepare your claim

Wrapping Up

Delays and rejections in CIS refunds can be stressful, but they are not the end of the road. By staying organised, responding quickly to HMRC, and seeking professional help when needed, you can solve these issues and receive your money. Many subcontractors choose services specialising in CIS tax refund in London because they want peace of mind and quicker results. With the right steps, you can make sure your hard-earned money comes back to you without unnecessary stress.

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