If you have paid too much tax through the Construction Industry Scheme (CIS), you are probably wondering how long it takes to get your tax rebate. At Tik-Tax, we specialise in helping CIS workers like you get your money back as quickly as possible. The good news is that most tax rebates are processed within a few weeks, but the exact timing depends on how you submit your return and whether HMRC requires any extra checks.
Understanding How Tax Rebates Work
A tax rebate is simply a refund from HMRC when you have overpaid tax during the financial year. For CIS workers, this often happens because contractors automatically deduct 20% or 30% from your earnings, even if your expenses mean you should have paid less overall. Once your tax return is submitted, HMRC reviews your income, deductions, and allowable expenses, then calculates whether you are owed a rebate.
At Tik-Tax, we handle this process for you, ensuring your claim is accurate, complete, and supported by the right evidence. This reduces the chance of delays and helps you get your rebate sooner.
When Do You Get Your Tax Money Back?
Most CIS tax rebates are issued within two to four weeks once HMRC receives your return. If you submit online, the process is usually faster. Paper submissions can take up to eight weeks or longer, as they need to be processed manually.
We submit all claims electronically to help speed things up, but the timing also depends on HMRC’s workload and whether your details match their records. During busy periods, such as April to July, waiting times may be slightly longer.
Once HMRC approves your rebate, the money is paid directly into your chosen bank account. You will receive confirmation by email or post, depending on how your return was filed.
CIS Tax Rebates and Delays
CIS tax returns can sometimes take longer to process than standard PAYE returns. This is because CIS refunds often include multiple income sources, subcontractor statements, and expense claims that need to be verified. If any details are missing, HMRC may request further information, which can delay your payment.
To avoid this, we check everything before submission, including UTR numbers, contractor deductions, and expense receipts. Our team knows exactly what HMRC looks for, so you are less likely to face delays or requests for clarification.
Average Processing Times
Here is a general guide to how long different types of tax rebate claims take:
CIS online submissions: Usually processed within 2–4 weeks
CIS paper submissions: Can take up to 8 weeks or more
PAYE refunds (non-CIS): Around 1–3 weeks if submitted online
Self-employed returns with complex deductions: 4–6 weeks depending on HMRC review time
If you have submitted a claim through Tik-Tax, we keep you updated at every stage so you always know what to expect.
How to Check the Status of Your Tax Rebate
If you are still waiting to receive your tax rebate, you can check the status online through your HMRC personal tax account. Alternatively, our team can track it for you and provide updates. We deal with HMRC directly on your behalf, saving you the time and stress of chasing progress yourself.
How to Speed Up Your Tax Rebate
There are a few steps you can take to help speed up the process:
Make sure your UTR, National Insurance number, and contractor statements are correct and up to date
Keep copies of your expense receipts or digital records ready for verification
Submit your claim as early as possible after the tax year ends on 5 April
Use a professional service like Tik-Tax to handle your return correctly from the start
Our streamlined CIS rebate system is designed to get your refund to you quickly and without hassle. Many of our clients receive their rebate within just a few weeks.
Why Use Tik-Tax for Your CIS Rebate?
We understand that waiting for your money can be frustrating, especially when you rely on it for everyday costs. Our team of CIS tax specialists works hard to ensure your rebate is processed fast and accurately. We deal with HMRC on your behalf, handle all the paperwork, and make sure nothing slows your claim down.
When you choose Tik-Tax, you benefit from:
Fast electronic submissions
Expert CIS rebate support
Direct payment into your bank account
Regular updates and transparent communication
Ready to Claim Your Tax Rebate?
If you are wondering when you will get your tax money back, the answer is simple: the sooner you submit, the sooner you get paid. Tik-Tax makes the process quick and easy. Our CIS experts are here to help you claim every penny you are owed.
Complete our short online form today and let us take care of the rest. You could have your rebate in your account in just a few weeks.