What to do when HMRC contacts you
Common reasons HMRC will contact you and how to avoid scams
HMRC may contact your company by post, through the Government Gateway, or by phone. You should inform us as soon as possible if you are contacted by HMRC directly.
Common HMRC contacts in year one
- UTR (Unique Taxpayer Reference) letter: forward immediately. We use it to file your CT600.
- PAYE activation code: forward immediately. We need it to activate employer payroll.
- VAT registration certificate: forward immediately. We update Xero and confirm your return periods.
- Tax code change notice (P6 or P9): forward immediately. We review before applying.
- Compliance check or enquiry letter: forward immediately. Do not respond without our involvement.
HMRC phishing
HMRC never asks for bank details or urgent payment by email or text. Any message demanding immediate payment with unusual urgency or directing you to a non-gov.uk website is likely a phishing attempt. Do not click any link. Forward to us for verification.
💡 Important: Forward all HMRC post and emails to us before responding or acting on them. Even routine-looking letters can contain deadlines. A letter that is not responded to can escalate to penalties in as little as 30 days.
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