The HMRC app is free to download and can be set up in minutes. Below are steps to get started along with information on the app’s most popular features, including:
- Claiming a tax refund
- Support for students and seasonal workers starting employment
- Assistance for families in claiming and managing Child Benefit
- Preparation for retirement
Employers may find it beneficial to share information about the HMRC app and online services with their employees, as these tools help individuals manage their taxes accurately and access any entitled funds.
How to set up the App
The HMRC app provides a convenient way to check and manage money and tax. For new users or those assisting employees with setup, here are three easy steps:
- Download the free HMRC app from the Apple App Store or Google Play Store.
- Complete the setup by following the on-screen instructions. Users will be prompted to sign in; if they don’t already have an account, they can sign up by providing accepted photo ID or answering security questions.
- Sign in using convenient options like facial recognition, a short PIN, or fingerprint authentication for faster access after the initial setup.
Claim a tax refund
For employees who have overpaid on taxes, claiming a refund is quick and easy through the HMRC app. Refunds are processed within a week of the claim and sent directly to the user’s bank account.
To initiate a tax refund, users should select the “Pay As You Earn (PAYE)” section within the app. If a refund is due, a green button will appear showing the amount; selecting this button starts the claim process.
Those who haven’t yet signed up for online services can still claim a refund online by searching “P800 refund” and providing a P800 reference number (from their P800 letter) and National Insurance number.
Access your National Insurance number
To streamline onboarding for students and seasonal workers, the HMRC app makes it easy to access a National Insurance number, which is often required when starting a new job. By using the app, employees can avoid the 15-day wait typically associated with receiving this information by post.
Employees can also store a digital copy of their National Insurance number in their smartphone’s e-wallet, allowing for offline access.
Claim and Manage Child Benefit
Eligible parents may receive up to £1,331 per year in Child Benefit for their first child, and about £881 annually for each additional child. Users can apply for and manage Child Benefit through the app, often receiving the first payment within three working days.
The app also allows users to view recent payments, obtain proof of entitlement, and update bank details, ensuring there are no missed payments.
For employees with incomes over £60,000, it is still advised to claim Child Benefit. This process provides National Insurance credits that count toward State Pension eligibility, even if payments are later repaid through the High Income Child Benefit Charge.
Access your State Pension Forecast
The app is a helpful tool for employees approaching retirement, as it allows them to check their State Pension forecast and review National Insurance contributions. This feature can help users determine how much pension they might receive and if any gaps in contributions need to be filled.
Voluntary contributions can be made until 5 April 2025 to cover gaps back to 6 April 2006. After that deadline, voluntary contributions will only be allowed for the previous six tax years.
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