Is It Really HMRC at Your Door? How to Check Before You Let Anyone In

Is It Really HMRC at Your Door? How to Check Before You Let Anyone In

If someone claiming to be from HMRC turns up at your home or business, would you know how to check they are genuine?

With fraudsters becoming increasingly convincing, it is important not to assume that someone is who they claim to be simply because they have official-looking identification. HMRC has guidance explaining how to verify the identity of its officers and debt collectors during face-to-face visits.

Whether you run a business or manage your personal tax affairs, taking a few simple precautions could help protect you from becoming a victim of fraud.

What should you do if an HMRC officer visits?

Anyone representing HMRC should identify themselves and explain the reason for their visit. They should also show you their HMRC identification card, which includes their name, photograph and serial number.

However, do not rely on an identification card alone. If you are unsure whether the person is genuine, contact HMRC to verify their details before proceeding.

Importantly, use your own phone to make the call rather than relying on a number supplied by the visitor or allowing them to make the call for you.

How to verify an HMRC officer

If someone claims to be an HMRC officer, follow these steps:

1. Ask to see their HMRC identification card.
2. Make a note of their name and serial number.
3. Using your own phone, call HMRC on 03000 565 656.
4. Give the adviser the officer’s details so they can confirm whether the individual is a genuine HMRC representative.

This number is specifically for verifying HMRC officers during face-to-face visits and is available 24 hours a day.

How to verify an HMRC debt collector

HMRC debt collectors will usually visit between 8am and 6pm, Monday to Friday.

If someone claiming to be an HMRC debt collector visits you:

1. Ask to see their identification card.
2. Note their name and serial number.
3. Call HMRC on 0300 200 3862.
4. Provide the details to the adviser so they can check whether the person represents HMRC.

If someone visits outside the usual hours and you want to verify their identity, HMRC advises arranging for them to return between 8am and 6pm, Monday to Friday.

You can also check HMRC’s official list of genuine HMRC contacts.

Stay alert and don’t feel pressured

A genuine HMRC representative should be willing to identify themselves and allow you to take steps to verify their identity. Do not feel pressured into providing personal or financial information, making payments or allowing access to your premises before you are satisfied that the visitor is genuine.

If anything feels suspicious, pause and contact HMRC through independently verified contact details.

Need help with your tax affairs?

At Kennedys Accounting, we understand that dealing with HMRC can sometimes feel daunting, particularly when you are running a business and have other demands on your time.

If you have concerns about your tax affairs or HMRC correspondence, contact our team to discuss how we can help you understand your obligations and deal with matters confidently.

If someone claims to be from HMRC, take a moment to check. A few simple precautions could make all the difference.