SMP, redundancy and tax

A question about : SMP, redundancy and tax

Hello,

I tried contacting the HMRC first but they are really unhelpful. You call their helpline and they can't access your details so they won't help you and they refuse to answer emailed requests through their sites saying ring their helpline - aargh.

Anyway, I will be made redundant on 31 December but I am probably going on Maternity Leave on 1 November. I have been told that I will receive 39 weeks of SMP in my final 'paypacket' (along with my miniscule redundancy). I have also been told that thi money will be taxed.

My question is can I defer the tax and NI for payments that should have been given me in the next financial year? My reason is is that I won't have a job next year so probably would be under the threshold for paying tax but if it comes out of this year's I will be paying the 20% + NI contributions.

Can anyone help?

Thanks.

Best answers:

• Thank you everyone, I really appreciate the help.