When was the last time you checked your online HMRC Personal Tax Account? Do you even realise you have an online Tax Account?
Personal Tax Accounts were made available back in 2015 and as an incentive for taxpayers to take responsibility for ensuring that their tax code is correct but we think they are more useful for checking the data and information that HMRC hold about you including information about your income, state pension and national insurance record. CGA can’t access this information and check this on your behalf so it is always worth making sure you can access your personal HMRC account.
How to access your Personal Tax Account
Step 1 – Find somewhere peaceful
This applies to the environment and your own mindset. Make sure the kids are in bed, have a glass of something strong to hand and make sure you have eaten – it is essential that you’re not overcome by hangriness during this process.
Step 2 – Be organised
Make sure you have at least 20 mins spare and have to hand either your Passport, P60 or Payslip before you start.
Step 3 – Get online
Visit https://www.gov.uk/personal-tax-account and click start now.
Step 4 – Steady the nerves
No really, steady your nerves – don’t panic.
Step 5 – Register yourself
You will need to know your name, email address and have to hand a good ‘strong’ password.
Step 6 – Put your Government Gateway ID in a safe place
(…and try to remember where that safe place is)
You will be sent a 12 digit Government Gateway user ID via Email – DO NOT LOSE THIS – the pain of going through the process of getting back into your personal tax account is considerable, upon losing your credentials. Don’t forget that you can always save this type of info within your CGA secure client portal.
Step 7 – Where did I put my mobile phone?
Once you have added your phone number you will be sent an access code – enter this access code online and remain calm.
Step 8 – Verify your identity
Now you will be glad you followed step 2 – answer the questions before you (they change depending on the document of choice).
Step 9 – Remain Calm
For many people Step 8 is a very large step… persevere. You may even need to try the verification process several times using each different document before it finally works! If you haven’t already resorted to drinking, then this may be the time.
Step 10 – Complete the process
Eventually you will complete the process and have access to your account and can start checking the info within.
Step 11 – And relax
Now you can relax (or if you didn’t overcome the verification stage, give up and try again another day).
Chelle xx
