HMRC warns of Self Assessment scams

HMRC is warning the millions of its Self Assessment customers to be vigilant to scams claiming to to be from the department.

Scammers often impersonate HMRC, offering fake refunds or demanding urgent payments to steal personal and banking information. And while scams will claim its safe to share details, passwords, usernames, and access codes should never be shared, even with someone who helps customers with their tax.

Filing early can also help customers spot scams more easily as those who have already submitted their tax return are less likely to be caught off guard by scam attempts closer to the Self Assessment 31 January 2026 deadline.

Concerned customers reported more than 170,000 scam referrals to HMRC in the 12 months to 31 July 2025 — and while that is a 12% reduction compared to the previous year, more than 47,000 of these reports still involved fake tax refund claims.

Kelly Paterson, HMRC’s Chief Security Officer, said:

“Scammers target individuals when they know Self Assessment customers will be preparing to file their tax returns. We’re urging everyone to stay alert to scam emails and texts offering fake tax refunds.

“Taking a moment to pause and check can make all the difference. Report any suspicious activity to us before the fraudsters do any more harm. Search ‘HMRC scams advice’ and refer to the scams guidance on GOV.UK to stay informed and protect yourself.”

If someone receives a communication claiming to be from HMRC that asks for personal details or offers a tax rebate, they should check the official HMRC scams guidance to verify its authenticity.

HMRC will never:

• leave voicemails threatening legal action or arrest
• ask for personal or financial information via text message or email
• contact customers by email, text, or phone to inform them about a refund or ask them to claim one.

Customers can report phishing attempts to HMRC by forwarding emails, reporting scam phone calls via GOV.UK, and forwarding suspicious texts to 60599.