How to sign in to HMRC online services for Self Assessment
If you are an individual who needs to send a Self Assessment tax return, you will need to sign in to HMRC online services to file your return online. This is a secure and convenient way to submit your tax information and pay any tax you owe.
To sign in to HMRC online services, you will need a login and password. You can get these when you register for tax online. You can register at any time, but you should do it by 5 October in your second tax year. For example, if you started self-employment or receiving other income in the 2022 to 2023 tax year, you should register by 5 October 2023.
To register for tax online, you will need your National Insurance number and details of your income sources. You can register on the GOV.UK website by following these steps:
1. Go to https://www.gov.uk/log-in-register-hmrc-online-services/register
2. Choose the option that applies to you, such as 'Self Assessment for individuals and sole traders'.
3. Follow the instructions to create a Government Gateway user ID and password.
4. You will receive a confirmation email with a link to activate your account.
5. You will also receive a letter with an activation code within 10 working days (21 days if you live abroad).
6. Once you have your activation code, go back to https://www.gov.uk/log-in-register-hmrc-online-services and sign in with your user ID and password.
7. Enter your activation code when prompted.
8. You can now access your personal tax account and file your Self Assessment tax return online.
Alternatively, you can use a different way to prove your identity, such as the Post Office or Digidentity. These are approved organisations that check and verify your identity online. You can choose this option when you register for tax online or when you sign in to HMRC online services.
To use this option, you will need:
- A valid UK passport or driving licence
- A UK bank account or credit card
- A smartphone or tablet with a camera
- An email address
You can find out more about these options on the GOV.UK website at https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/verify-identity-using-a-different-way-to-prove-who-you-are/verify-identity-using-a-different-way-to-prove-who-you-are
Once you have verified your identity, you can sign in to HMRC online services using the same method every time.
Signing in to HMRC online services for Self Assessment is easy and secure. It allows you to file your tax return online, check your tax account, view your statements and payments, and contact HMRC if you need help.
You should file your Self Assessment tax return by 31 January each year, or earlier if possible. You should also pay any tax you owe by the same date.
If you need help with signing in or filing your tax return online, you can visit https://www.gov.uk/self-assessment-tax-returns or call the Self Assessment helpline on 0300 200 3310.
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