Forgot to file tax return and regretting it - LOL!

Between July 2024 and February 2025, I did some locum work after leaving employment. I ended up taking a maternity cover role in March 2025 and I am now permanently employed there.

So technically I do not owe anything additional to my current paychecks as I've not been doing any side work. When I realised I stupidly forgot to sort out my HMRC account, I applied for reduction of payments and told HMRC I am no longer self employed. My application is reading complete, but I have not heard anything. I'm pretty sure the outstanding payment has reduced though.

I've paid the penalty and the payment is due in July. I'm wondering: am I better off paying the tax and then applying for a refund, or applying for reduction in payments again?

TIA