Online services - report a problem

HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC) want everyone to have a good experience when using online services, but know that sometimes things can go wrong.

If you're experiencing a problem using one of the online services there are a number of ways HMRC can help.

Visit the HMRC website

Self Assessment Online - lost User ID or password

Find out what to do if you've forgotten your Self Assessment User ID or password.

Check the Service issues page

See if there are any current issues being experienced by customers and find out what to do if they affect you.

Understanding and using Self Assessment Online

Find out about registering for and the using Self Assessment online service.

Understanding and using VAT Online

Find out about registering for and using the VAT online service.

If you still need help after referring to the HMRC website, please contact the HMRC Online Services Helpdesk - see below.

Contact HMRC Online Services Helpdesk

The HMRC Online Services Helpdesk team can only deal with queries relating to HMRC online services and any supporting computer systems. They are unable to answer questions about any other subject matter.

Tel: 0845 6055 999

Open from 8.00 am to 8.00 pm, Monday to Friday, and from 8.00 am to 4.00 pm on Saturday. Closed Christmas Day, Boxing Day and New Year's Day.

Customers who are deaf or cannot speak on the telephone can use the Textphone on Tel 0845 366 7805.

If you're calling from abroad please use Tel + 44 161 930 8445.

If you need general help and advice instead, please use the 'Contact us' link below - you'll find specific helplines that deal with tax enquiries for Self Assessment, PAYE for employers, Stamp Taxes, VAT, Construction Industry Scheme and many more. You'll also find a helpline there that deals with technical problems for VAT Online.

Contact us

Email

If your technical enquiry relates to using the Self Assessment online service HMRC recommends that you check the HMRC website or call the Online Services Helpdesk (see above).

If your query relates to using another online service, please check HMRC web guidance first in the relevant topic area or call the Online Services Helpdesk.

Email enquiries HMRC can and can't deal with

Please note that emails are sent at your own risk - information sent in this way isn't secure and can be intercepted and read by others.

If you still decide to send an email please note that, for security reasons, HMRC can only respond to enquiries that are general in nature and don't require them to verify your identity, for example:

  • How can I request a new User ID or Password or Activation Code?
  • How to register.
  • How to amend a filed return.
  • How long do I have to complete my return?
  • How can I print my Self Assessment?
  • How can I view my statements?

HMRC regrets that they cannot deal with the following types of request - in these cases please call the Online Services Helpdesk:

  • requests for personal information such as a UTR (Self Assessment Unique Taxpayer Reference), payment details etc
  • requests for a new User ID and Password, or Activation Code
  • queries about submitted returns, for example 'Have you received my Self Assessment Return?'
  • enquiries from agents with client list problems
  • requests for a callback - if you've been unable to get through to the helpdesk

What you need to tell HMRC before they can reply by email to you

HMRC will reply by email if they don't need to include personal or confidential information, but only if you let them know in your email that you accept the risks involved. If you don't confirm this or HMRC needs to include personal or confidential information, HMRC will telephone or write to you.

If you have any doubt about the authenticity of an email you receive which claims to come from HMRC please do not follow the links in it or respond to it. Follow the link below for further information about online security and to send details of any suspect emails.

Security advice

Email an enquiry to the Online Services Helpdesk