HMRC operates a range of dedicated helplines for different tax types and queries. Waiting times vary significantly by time of day and by season, with January and February typically the busiest months. Before calling, check whether your query can be resolved through your Personal Tax Account, as this is often faster.
Self Assessment helpline
| Helpline | Number | Hours |
|---|
| Self Assessment general | 0300 200 3310 | Monday to Friday, 8am to 6pm |
| Self Assessment payment problems | 0300 200 3822 | Monday to Friday, 8am to 6pm |
| Textphone (deaf or hard of hearing) | 0300 200 3319 | Monday to Friday, 8am to 6pm |
VAT helpline
| Helpline | Number | Hours |
|---|
| VAT general enquiries | 0300 200 3700 | Monday to Friday, 8am to 6pm |
| VAT registration | 0300 200 3700 | Monday to Friday, 8am to 6pm |
| VAT import and export | 0300 200 3700 | Monday to Friday, 8am to 6pm |
Employer and PAYE helpline
| Helpline | Number | Hours |
|---|
| Employer general enquiries | 0300 200 3200 | Monday to Friday, 8am to 6pm |
| Employer payment problems | 0300 200 3200 | Monday to Friday, 8am to 6pm |
| Statutory payments (SSP, SMP, SPP) | 0300 200 3200 | Monday to Friday, 8am to 6pm |
Corporation Tax
| Helpline | Number |
|---|
| Corporation Tax general | 0300 200 3410 |
| Corporation Tax payment queries | 0300 200 3410 |
Payment problems
| Query type | Number |
|---|
| Business Payment Support Service (general) | 0800 0159 559 |
| HMRC debt management (Self Assessment) | 0300 200 3835 |
| HMRC debt management (PAYE and NIC) | 0300 200 3835 |
Construction Industry Scheme (CIS)
| Helpline | Number |
|---|
| CIS general enquiries | 0300 200 3210 |
| CIS payments and deductions | 0300 200 3210 |
Bereavement and deceased estates
| Query type | Number |
|---|
| Bereavement and deceased estates | 0300 200 3300 |
| Inheritance Tax | 0300 123 1072 |
General and other HMRC helplines
| Service | Number |
|---|
| Income Tax general | 0300 200 3300 |
| National Insurance general | 0300 200 3500 |
| Tax credits | 0345 300 3900 |
| Child Benefit | 0300 200 3100 |
| Capital Gains Tax | 0300 200 3300 |
Note on waiting times: HMRC helplines are busiest in January and February and during the weeks following a Budget announcement. Calling early in the morning or mid-week typically results in shorter waiting times. Many queries can be resolved online via your Personal Tax Account.
Tips for calling HMRC
- Have your National Insurance number, UTR, or VAT registration number ready before calling.
- Have any relevant correspondence from HMRC to hand, including reference numbers.
- Make a note of the date, time, and name of the adviser you speak to, along with any reference number given.
- If HMRC makes a verbal commitment during the call, follow up in writing to create a record.
Disclaimer: This guide provides general information only. It is not regulated financial or legal advice. Figures are accurate as of March 2026 and are subject to change. Consult a qualified accountant for advice specific to your circumstances.