Your application – in black and white

Of course, you’ll have lots of questions, so we’ll do our best to provide the answers. These are some of the questions we’re asked most frequently.

Do you have an age limit for applications?

In short, no. We welcome applications from eligible candidates of any age. If your application be successful, we will need your date of birth for administrative purposes. This information is used only by administrators and is not available to anyone involved in the actual selection process.

How does your organisation view maternity breaks and caring for dependants?

We take each individual request on its own merits. We base our entitlements to time of for ante-natal care and maternity leave on statutory requirements. Partners, including same sex partners, are entitled to two weeks paid paternity leave.

We also have a scheme, open to both men and women, which allows you to take up to five years unpaid special leave to care for someone close to you.

Is relevant work experience needed before I apply to join HM Revenue & Customs?

No. We’re looking to your future, not your past. So, even if you don’t have any work experience, our selection process looks at your capabilities and potential and evidence of skills that could have been gained anywhere.

Will my political views affect my chances of getting a job with you?

No. Your political views aren’t important. However, once you join us, you’ll be subject to restrictions on national and local political activities. These include standing as a candidate in a parliamentary election, canvassing on behalf of candidates and expressing views on matters of political controversy in public speeches or publications.

What is the dress code?

We don't have a formal dress code but smart and casual is quite acceptable. When meeting the public you are representing HM Revenue & Customs and should dress accordingly.

Are there secondment opportunities - is it possible to transfer between departments?

Yes. There are opportunities for loans to other government departments and secondments outside the UK Civil Service and overseas. These are advertised internally but any application must be supported by the business area you work in.

Can I transfer my existing pension?

If you have pension benefits in the scheme of a former employer or in a personal/stakeholder pension plan (but not AVC plans) you may be able to transfer them into the Civil Service Pension Scheme (CSPS).

The transfer value will buy a credit of reckonable service or pension credit in the Civil Service Pension Scheme. The scheme has discretion to refuse a transfer if it is deemed to be insufficient to cover the cost of your guaranteed minimum pension, if the transferring scheme is unable to comply with CSPS requirements or if you do not make your application within the relevant time limit. You can get further information from the Civil Service Pensions website.