Businesses across east London are being urged to prepare for the introduction of a new electronic system for keeping records of tax paid by their employees.

HM Revenue and Customs will introduce a new system in April which will require them to send their employees’ PAYE returns electronically.

Business owners are being told to ensure their payroll software is up to date, and check employee information in order to make sure their records are accurate and up-to-date.

Ruth Owen, HMRC’s director general personal tax, said: “To avoid a last minute rush it’s vital employers across London act now, if they have not already done so.

“Although reporting PAYE in real time will be straightforward for most, some preparation is needed.”

For more information, visit hmrc.gov.uk/rti.