What Number Does HMRC Call You On in the UK: Official HMRC Contact Numbers & Reasons for Calls
When HMRC calls you, it typically uses specific official numbers. These numbers vary depending on the purpose of the call, such as tax queries, payment reminders, fraud checks, or research surveys. As of January 2025, some of the key numbers HMRC may call from include:
Purpose of Call | Possible HMRC Contact Numbers |
General Tax Queries & Self Assessment | 0300 200 3300 |
VAT Inquiries | 0300 200 3700 |
National Insurance Queries | 0300 200 3500 |
Employer PAYE Helpline | 0300 200 3200 |
Debt Management & Payment Reminders | Varies – often 0300 200 3887 or withheld |
HMRC Research Surveys (e.g., VAT registration for private schools) | Third-party numbers such as IFF Research |
Child Benefit Helpline | 0300 200 3100 |
You can verify HMRC's official numbers on the UK Government website before engaging in any phone conversation.
How HMRC Calls Work
When HMRC contacts you, the call may:
Appear from a 0300 number (but could also be withheld or unknown).
Be a recorded message for debt collection purposes.
Be a live agent call for tax compliance, business-related matters, or personal tax codes.
Never request sensitive information such as bank details or passwords.
If you receive a call claiming to be from HMRC and you’re unsure, you can hang up and call back using the official helpline listed on GOV.UK.
How to Verify HMRC Calls, Avoid Scams, and Protect Yourself from Fraudulent Tax Calls
Now, let's take a deeper look into how to verify HMRC calls, how to spot scams, and what to do if you receive a suspicious call.
How to Verify If an HMRC Call Is Genuine
While HMRC does make outbound calls for tax compliance, debt collection, and research purposes, not every call claiming to be from HMRC is legitimate. The rise of HMRC-related scams means you must always verify before sharing any personal details. Here’s how:
1. Check the Phone Number Against the GOV.UK Website
The best way to confirm whether an HMRC call is real is to check if the number matches one listed on the official government website. Keep in mind:
Legitimate HMRC calls often come from 0300 numbers, but some may appear as private or withheld.
If a number isn't listed on GOV.UK, be extra cautious.
Debt management calls sometimes use different numbers, which you can check on HMRC’s guidance page about call authenticity.
2. HMRC Will NEVER Ask for Certain Information
A genuine HMRC agent will never:
Ask for your bank details, PIN, or password over the phone.
Demand immediate payment using gift cards, cryptocurrency, or money transfers.
Threaten you with arrest, legal action, or deportation.
3. HMRC Uses Letters & Online Services for Major Issues
If you owe tax or need to provide documents, HMRC will usually contact you by letter first. You can also check for messages in your Personal Tax Account (accessible via GOV.UK).
4. You Can Call HMRC Back
If in doubt, hang up and call HMRC directly using a number listed on their official website. Do not redial the same number the caller used, as scammers can spoof legitimate-looking numbers.
Common HMRC Phone Scams & How to Avoid Them
Scammers frequently impersonate HMRC to trick UK taxpayers into revealing personal details or making fraudulent payments. Here are some of the most common scams:
1. "You Owe Tax – Pay Immediately or Face Arrest"
How It Works:
A caller (often a recorded voice) claims you owe HMRC money.
They demand immediate payment, often threatening arrest or legal action.
They may ask for payment via bank transfer, gift cards, or even cryptocurrency.
How to Avoid It:
✅ HMRC never threatens arrest over unpaid tax. If you're concerned about outstanding payments, check directly via your Personal Tax Account or call HMRC using their official number.
2. "You Are Due a Tax Refund – Click This Link"
How It Works:
You receive a call (or sometimes a text/email) saying you’re due a tax rebate.
The caller directs you to a fake website that looks like GOV.UK.
You’re asked to enter your bank details to "receive" the refund.
How to Avoid It:
✅ HMRC never calls to offer a tax refund. If you are eligible for a rebate, it will be processed through your Personal Tax Account or by post.
3. "HMRC Is Investigating You – Press 1"
How It Works:
A pre-recorded message tells you HMRC is investigating you for tax fraud.
You’re asked to press 1 to speak to an agent.
This agent may then try to extract your personal information.
How to Avoid It:
✅ Hang up immediately. HMRC does not issue investigation notices this way. If HMRC investigates you, you’ll receive a letter first.
What to Do If You Receive a Suspicious Call
If you suspect an HMRC-related scam call, follow these steps:
Step 1: Hang Up Immediately
Do not provide any information. Simply end the call.
Step 2: Report the Scam to HMRC
Forward any suspicious emails or messages to phishing@hmrc.gov.uk and report scam calls to HMRC’s official fraud reporting service on GOV.UK.
Step 3: Check Your HMRC Account
Log in to your Personal Tax Account to see if HMRC has actually tried to contact you.
Step 4: Block the Number
If the scammer keeps calling, block the number on your phone.
Legitimate HMRC Callbacks – How Do They Work?
Sometimes, HMRC will call you back if you request it. Here’s what to expect:
You might request a call back if you've been on hold for too long.
The callback will come from an official HMRC number (usually a 0300 number).
The agent may ask security questions to verify your identity – but never overly personal details like full bank account info or passwords.
Key Takeaways
✅ Always check phone numbers against GOV.UK.
✅ If a call sounds threatening or urgent, it’s likely a scam.
✅ Never share personal financial details over the phone.
✅ If unsure, hang up and call HMRC back using their official number.
✅ Report all suspicious calls to HMRC’s fraud team.
Missed an HMRC Call? Official Helplines, Business Support Contacts, and How to Handle HMRC Compliance Calls
List of Key HMRC Helplines by Service
While HMRC does make outgoing calls, most taxpayer interactions start with an inbound call made by the taxpayer. Below is a list of official HMRC contact numbers you can use if you need assistance.
Service | HMRC Contact Number | Opening Hours (UK Time) |
Self Assessment & Income Tax | 0300 200 3310 | Mon-Fri: 8am-6pm |
National Insurance | 0300 200 3500 | Mon-Fri: 8am-6pm |
VAT Queries | 0300 200 3700 | Mon-Fri: 8am-6pm |
Corporation Tax | 0300 200 3410 | Mon-Fri: 8am-6pm |
Employers' PAYE | 0300 200 3200 | Mon-Fri: 8am-6pm |
Construction Industry Scheme (CIS) | 0300 200 3210 | Mon-Fri: 8am-6pm |
Tax Credits | 0345 300 3900 | Mon-Fri: 8am-6pm |
Child Benefit | 0300 200 3100 | Mon-Fri: 8am-6pm |
Debt Management & Payments | 0300 200 3887 | Mon-Fri: 8am-6pm |
📌 Note: HMRC helplines are closed on weekends and UK bank holidays.
For the latest contact details, visit the HMRC contact page.
What to Do If You Miss an HMRC Call
Since HMRC often calls from withheld numbers or 0300 numbers, it can be tricky to know if you’ve missed an important call. Here’s what you should do:
1. Check Your Voicemail or Call History
HMRC may leave a voicemail if they tried to reach you.
If you see a missed call from a 0300 number, check it against the GOV.UK website.
2. Wait for HMRC to Call Again
If it was a legitimate call, HMRC may try again later.
Debt management calls often come in multiple attempts.
3. Log in to Your HMRC Online Account
Check if there are any messages in your Personal Tax Account (log in here).
4. Call HMRC Back
If you suspect HMRC was calling about an urgent matter, call them directly using the official helpline number for the relevant tax service.
5. Be Wary of Callback Requests
Always initiate calls using a verified number from GOV.UK.
How HMRC Contacts Businesses & the Self-Employed
If you are self-employed or run a business, HMRC may contact you for several reasons, including:
PAYE obligations & payroll compliance
VAT registration & returns
Corporation tax filings
Tax investigations or compliance checks
Making Tax Digital (MTD) updates
HMRC Business Support Helplines
For business owners, there are dedicated HMRC helplines:
Business Service | HMRC Contact Number |
Employers' PAYE Support | 0300 200 3200 |
VAT Registration Helpline | 0300 200 3700 |
Corporation Tax Helpline | 0300 200 3410 |
HMRC Fraud Hotline (to report tax evasion) | 0800 788 887 |
Making Tax Digital (MTD) & Business Tax Calls
HMRC is transitioning most tax services to Making Tax Digital (MTD).
Some businesses may receive calls about MTD compliance or VAT submissions.
If in doubt, confirm details via your HMRC online account.
How to Handle an HMRC Compliance Call
If HMRC calls you for a compliance check, here’s what to do:
1. Stay Calm & Gather Information
Ask the caller why they are contacting you.
Request the specific tax issue they are calling about.
Note down the caller’s name & department.
2. Do Not Provide Sensitive Details Immediately
HMRC will ask security questions, but they won’t demand passwords or full bank details.
If you feel uncertain, tell them you will call back.
3. Call HMRC Using a Verified Number
Look up the correct HMRC helpline and call them back.
Ask to be connected to the relevant department.
4. Keep Records of the Conversation
Note the date, time, and details of the call.
If HMRC asks for documents, confirm where to send them via GOV.UK.
Key Takeaways
✅ If you miss an HMRC call, check your voicemail & online account.
✅ Businesses should be aware of specific HMRC contact numbers for payroll, VAT & corporation tax.
✅ If you receive a tax compliance call, verify it before providing information.
✅ Always use official GOV.UK helplines for any tax-related queries.
Comprehensive HMRC Helpline Numbers
Service | HMRC Contact Number | Purpose of the Helpline | Opening Hours (UK Time) |
Self Assessment General Enquiries | 0300 200 3310 | Help with Self Assessment tax returns, tax codes, and refunds | Mon-Fri: 8am-6pm |
Self Assessment Payments | 0300 200 3402 | Queries about making Self Assessment tax payments | Mon-Fri: 8am-6pm |
PAYE for Employees | 0300 200 3300 | Queries related to Income Tax, PAYE, tax codes, and underpayments | Mon-Fri: 8am-6pm |
National Insurance (NI) General Enquiries | 0300 200 3500 | Help with NI contributions, voluntary NI payments, and NI credits | Mon-Fri: 8am-6pm |
Employers' PAYE Helpline | 0300 200 3200 | Employer-related PAYE queries, payroll, RTI issues | Mon-Fri: 8am-6pm |
VAT General Enquiries | 0300 200 3700 | Queries about VAT registration, returns, payments, and VAT-related penalties | Mon-Fri: 8am-6pm |
VAT Registration Helpline | 0300 322 7870 | Help with registering for VAT | Mon-Fri: 8am-6pm |
Corporation Tax General Enquiries | 0300 200 3410 | Support for corporation tax filings, payments, and penalties | Mon-Fri: 8am-6pm |
Capital Gains Tax (CGT) Helpline | 0300 200 3300 | Support for reporting and paying Capital Gains Tax | Mon-Fri: 8am-6pm |
Inheritance Tax (IHT) Helpline | 0300 123 1072 | Queries about IHT payments, exemptions, and deadlines | Mon-Fri: 9am-5pm |
Construction Industry Scheme (CIS) Helpline | 0300 200 3210 | Help for contractors and subcontractors under CIS | Mon-Fri: 8am-6pm |
Tax Credits General Enquiries | 0345 300 3900 | Queries regarding tax credits, renewals, and payments | Mon-Fri: 8am-6pm |
Child Benefit General Enquiries | 0300 200 3100 | Help with Child Benefit claims, changes, and payments | Mon-Fri: 8am-6pm |
Debt Management and Payments | 0300 200 3887 | Queries about unpaid tax bills and setting up payment plans | Mon-Fri: 8am-6pm |
HMRC Fraud Hotline | 0800 788 887 | Report tax evasion, fraud, and other illegal tax-related activities | 24/7 |
Making Tax Digital (MTD) Support | 0300 200 3701 | Help with MTD registration, digital tax accounts, and compliance | Mon-Fri: 8am-6pm |
Statutory Sick Pay (SSP) Employer Helpline | 0300 200 3500 | Support for employers managing SSP payments for employees | Mon-Fri: 8am-6pm |
Stamp Duty Land Tax (SDLT) Helpline | 0300 200 3510 | Queries about Stamp Duty on property purchases and filings | Mon-Fri: 8am-6pm |
Offshore Tax Disclosures (Worldwide Disclosure Facility) | 0300 322 7012 | Help for disclosing unpaid offshore taxes | Mon-Fri: 8am-6pm |
Imports and Exports General Enquiries | 0300 322 9434 | Customs declarations, duties, and international trade compliance | Mon-Fri: 8am-6pm |
Excise & Alcohol Duty Helpline | 0300 200 3705 | Queries about excise duty on alcohol, tobacco, and fuels | Mon-Fri: 8am-6pm |
Research & Development (R&D) Tax Relief | 0300 123 3440 | Help for businesses claiming R&D tax relief | Mon-Fri: 8am-6pm |
Digital Services & Online Accounts Support | 0300 200 3600 | Assistance with HMRC online services and login issues | Mon-Fri: 8am-6pm |
Welsh Language Tax Helpline | 0300 200 1900 | Tax support for Welsh speakers | Mon-Fri: 8am-6pm |
Additional Notes:
✅ Call charges: HMRC’s 0300 numbers are charged at local rates and included in mobile plans.
✅ Best time to call: HMRC helplines are busiest between 10 AM and 2 PM, so calling early or late can reduce wait times.
✅ Alternative ways to contact HMRC: Webchat, email (for specific services), and postal correspondence are available for certain queries.
✅ Check GOV.UK for updates: For the latest numbers and services, visit HMRC Contact Page.
Would you like me to add any other details or specific HMRC services? 🚀
FAQs
Q1: Does HMRC ever leave voicemail messages if you don’t answer their call?
A: Yes, HMRC may leave an automated voicemail message if you miss their call, particularly for debt management or compliance checks. However, they will never ask for sensitive information in a voicemail. If in doubt, call HMRC back using an official number from GOV.UK.
Q2: Can HMRC call you from a mobile number?
A: No, HMRC does not use mobile numbers to contact taxpayers. Any call from a mobile number claiming to be from HMRC is likely a scam. Always verify HMRC contact details on GOV.UK.
Q3: How can you request an official callback from HMRC?
A: You can request an HMRC callback by using their official web services or speaking to an advisor on an HMRC helpline. Callbacks are scheduled for a specific time, and the agent will confirm security details before discussing your query.
Q4: Does HMRC contact people via WhatsApp or social media?
A: No, HMRC does not contact taxpayers via WhatsApp, Facebook, Twitter, or any other social media platform. If you receive a message on these platforms claiming to be from HMRC, it is a scam.
Q5: Can you check if HMRC tried to call you online?
A: No, HMRC does not provide an online service to check missed calls. However, you can log into your Personal Tax Account on GOV.UK to see if there are any messages from HMRC.
Q6: Does HMRC ever contact taxpayers via text message (SMS)?
A: Yes, HMRC may send text messages for certain services, such as reminders for Self Assessment deadlines or VAT payments. However, they will never ask for personal or financial details via text.
Q7: Can HMRC call you outside of working hours?
A: No, HMRC's official call times are typically between 8 AM and 6 PM, Monday to Friday. Any call outside these hours is suspicious and should be reported.
Q8: Will HMRC ever contact you by email about outstanding tax?
A: HMRC may send emails about general tax matters, but they will never include links asking you to enter personal details or make payments. Always verify emails before responding.
Q9: Can you block HMRC’s phone number if they keep calling you?
A: While you can block numbers on your phone, doing so may result in missing important information about your tax affairs. If you believe an HMRC call is unnecessary, contact them directly to confirm.
Q10: Does HMRC call businesses separately from individuals?
Q11: Can HMRC call your accountant or tax advisor instead of you?
A: Yes, if you have officially authorized a tax advisor or accountant to manage your tax affairs, HMRC may contact them instead of you. This requires prior authorization via form 64-8.
Q12: How do you report a suspicious call claiming to be from HMRC?
A: You can report fraudulent calls to phishing@hmrc.gov.uk or via HMRC’s fraud reporting page on GOV.UK. You should also report scam calls to Action Fraud in the UK.
Q13: Does HMRC record phone calls for security purposes?
A: Yes, most HMRC calls are recorded for training and security purposes. If you need a record of a conversation, you can request a transcript through a formal subject access request.
Q14: Can HMRC ask you to confirm your National Insurance number over the phone?
A: HMRC may ask for part of your National Insurance number as a security check, but they will never ask you to confirm full sensitive details like passwords or bank information over the phone.
Q15: Can HMRC call you to discuss someone else’s tax affairs?
A: No, HMRC will never discuss another person’s tax affairs with you unless you are an officially authorized representative or guardian.
Q16: How long does HMRC usually take to return a call if you request one?
A: Callback times vary depending on HMRC’s workload. Typically, HMRC returns calls within 1-5 working days, but during peak tax seasons, it may take longer.
Q17: What should you do if HMRC calls you about a tax investigation?
A: If HMRC contacts you regarding a tax investigation, verify the caller’s identity first, then ask for written confirmation of the investigation via post or your online tax account before taking any action.
Q18: Can HMRC call you to ask for feedback on their services?
A: Yes, HMRC occasionally works with third-party research agencies, such as IFF Research, to conduct surveys. However, they will never ask for financial details or payment.
Q19: Will HMRC ever call you about a tax refund without prior notice?
A: No, HMRC does not call taxpayers to inform them of tax refunds. If you are due a refund, it will be communicated through an official letter or your online tax account.
Q20: Can HMRC call you if you have moved abroad?
A: Yes, if you have UK tax obligations and are living abroad, HMRC may call you. However, international taxpayers should verify HMRC’s contact number before engaging in any conversation.
Disclaimer:
The information provided in our articles is for general informational purposes only and is not intended as professional advice. While we strive to keep the information up-to-date and correct, My Tax Accountant makes no representations or warranties of any kind, express or implied, about the completeness, accuracy, reliability, suitability, or availability with respect to the website or the information, products, services, or related graphics contained in the articles for any purpose. Any reliance you place on such information is therefore strictly at your own risk.
We encourage all readers to consult with a qualified professional before making any decisions based on the information provided. The tax and accounting rules in the UK are subject to change and can vary depending on individual circumstances. Therefore, My Tax Accountant cannot be held liable for any errors, omissions, or inaccuracies published. The firm is not responsible for any losses, injuries, or damages arising from the display or use of this information.
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