What to Do If You Get a Call from “HMRC”

What to Do If You Get a Call from “HMRC”: How to Check If It’s Genuine

Getting a Call from HMRC? Don’t Panic – but Don’t Assume It’s Real

You’re in the middle of your day when the phone rings. A serious-sounding voice claims to be from HMRC. They mention unpaid taxes or urgent action. It’s stressful and it’s meant to be.

Scam calls pretending to be from HMRC or other government bodies are increasingly common, and they’re designed to make you act fast. So what should you do?

Why This Matters: Protecting Your Business and Your Sanity

Falling for a scam can mean more than just money lost. It can lead to leaked personal data, unnecessary worry, and time wasted. By staying calm and knowing what to do, you can protect yourself and your business from risk, without ignoring a genuine issue if one exists.

At Love Accountancy, we’re here to make accounting feel effortlessly easy and that includes helping you navigate situations like this with confidence.

What to Do: A Simple Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Don’t Share Any Personal or Financial Information

  • Never give out your UTR number, NI number, bank details, or passwords on a cold call, even if they seem to know a lot about you.

  • HMRC will never demand immediate payment or threaten arrest over the phone.

Step 2: Ask for It in Writing

  • Say something like:
    “I’m not comfortable continuing this call. If this is genuine, please send the request in writing by post to my registered address. I’ll then review it with my accountant.”

  • A legitimate caller will respect this. Scammers often become aggressive or pushy.

Step 3: Take Note of the Number and Hang Up

  • Note the caller’s number (if shown), any reference number given, and what they claimed.

  • End the call without further conversation.

Step 4: Verify the Number Independently

  • Cross-check the number via the official GOV.UK website or call HMRC directly using a number you know is real.

  • HMRC’s general contact number is: 0300 200 3300 (but always verify online).

Step 5: Report Suspicious Calls

  • If you think it was a scam, report it to: phishing@hmrc.gov.uk
    Or use their online form on the GOV.UK site.

Step 6: Speak to Your Accountant (That’s Us)

  • Forward the call details to your accountant. We’ll help you check your HMRC account and see if there’s anything you actually need to respond to.

  • We can also contact HMRC on your behalf if needed.

Expert Tips & Common Pitfalls

Tip: HMRC will usually write to you before calling. If this is the first you’ve heard of a problem, it’s likely not real.

Pitfall: Even experienced business owners have been caught out when a call comes at a busy or stressful time. Don’t feel pressured to act instantly.

Tip: Register for a personal tax or business account on HMRC’s website. That way, you can log in and check for real updates anytime.

Still Not Sure? We’re Happy to Help

If you’re unsure about a letter, call, or email – don’t guess. Send it over and we’ll check for you. It’s all part of how we support your business, not just with tax returns, but with peace of mind too.

About Love Accountancy

At Love Accountancy, we do more than keep your books balanced. We give you clarity, confidence, and support when it matters most. Whether it’s spotting scams or staying compliant with HMRC, we’ve got your back. As trusted accountants in Exeter, we help clients across the UK stay safe, stress-free, and in control of their finances. Looking for an accountant in Exeter who makes things easier? Let’s talk.

Set up a free consultation meeting Contact us today