HMRC Government Gateway: What is it and how can it help you?

The Government Gateway is a secure digital login system that lets you access HMRC and other government services online using a single set of credentials, a 12-digit Government Gateway User ID, rather than separate logins for each service.

We recommend all our clients have an account. Here’s why

Time Saving

• Access your relevant tax services quickly through one set of credentials; no need for multiple logins or individual accounts.
• Manage your personal and business tax affairs, view tax records, and communicate with HMRC online.

Everything in One Place

• Centralised, 24/7 management of multiple tax services.
• Add and oversee Self-Assessments, VAT, PAYE, and Corporation Tax online using your Gateway User ID.

For Individuals and Businesses

• Select the account that best fits your needs.
  • Individual Account: Manage tax returns, tax codes and Income Tax estimates, employment history, and track personal tax liabilities and payments.
  • Organisation/Business Account: View and manage any business taxes (add a tax service such as VAT, PAYE, and Corporation Tax), authorise accountants to act on behalf of the business.

Accountants should, as per HMRC guidance, use their own Agent Access to manage your services on your behalf, rather than use your own personal account. This should be kept securely for your own benefit. 

 Although HMRC are rolling out the Gov.UK One Login, current HMRC guidance recommends that you use the method we outline here. 

Here’s how to set up:

Visit the HMRC online services page and sign in or set up an account for HMRC online services – GOV.UK

Choose the option that matches your needs:

• • Set up a personal tax account, or
  • Set up an account under “Organisation accounts”.

You’ll be taken to a new page. Click “Create sign-in details”.

• Enter your email address and other required information.
• Once your sign-in details are created, register for the HMRC services you need through your account.

The whole process is simple, and you will be guided during the process in setting up your account.

We recommend that you use 2 Factor Authentication (2FA) and there are several applications for password management and 2FA services for you to choose from, we suggest that you research what is available to suit your needs but examples are: Microsoft, Google, Authy or you can use your mobile number to receive your authentication code.