HMRC personal tax account: set it up and use it
It's free, it takes about 15 minutes, and it's the quickest way to check your tax code, claim a refund or find your UTR without phoning HMRC.
What you can do in it
- Check your tax code and this year's Income Tax estimate
- Claim a tax refund, and check income and tax paid for the last 5 years
- Submit, view or manage a Self Assessment return, and find your UTR
- Find your National Insurance number, check your State Pension forecast, and see whether voluntary NI would help
- Check or update Marriage Allowance and Child Benefit
- Update your name or address, and company benefits like a company car
How to set it up
- Go to GOV.UK: personal tax account and choose Start now. Only use the GOV.UK address, never a link from a text or email.
- Sign in, or create sign-in details if you don't have them.
- Prove your identity if asked. This usually means photo ID, such as a passport or a UK driving licence. Some people can use other checks.
- Set up 2-step verification (a text code or an authenticator app).
- Download the HMRC app if you like. It shows the same information on your phone.
5 things worth checking today
- Your tax code. 1257L is the usual code for 2026/27. A different code may be right (benefits, an underpayment), but if it looks wrong, update your details.
- Your NI record: gaps can reduce your State Pension.
- Marriage Allowance: worth up to £252 a year, backdated to 2022/23. See the checker.
- Old refunds from job changes or emergency tax codes.
- Your UTR, if you'll need to file a tax return by 31 January 2027.
Avoid tax refund scams
HMRC doesn't send refund offers by text or email with a link. Never share your sign-in details or codes. Report suspicious messages to HMRC.
Source: GOV.UK: personal tax account, sign in or set up. GOV.UK is the only official route, and it's free.
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Get it for £15 →FAQs
Is the HMRC personal tax account free?
Yes. It's an official GOV.UK service, and it's free. Avoid any website that charges to set it up or to claim refunds you can claim yourself.
What ID do I need for a personal tax account?
You'll be told when you sign in if you need to prove your identity. It normally involves photo ID, like a passport or driving licence.
Can I find my UTR in my personal tax account?
Yes, if you already have one. You can also see your National Insurance number and your Self Assessment details.
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