Is That Really HMRC at Your Door?

FRAUD AWARENESS

With fraud on the rise and doorstep imposters becoming more convincing, HMRC has clarified how you can check that anyone claiming to represent it is genuine. If someone turns up at your home or business saying they are from HMRC, a few minutes of checking could protect you from a costly scam.

Never take identity for granted

Anyone representing HMRC will always identify themselves and explain why they are visiting. You should still ask to see proof and never assume a visitor is who they claim to be. If you are unsure, you can contact HMRC to confirm that the person is a genuine officer.

One crucial rule: use your own mobile phone to make the verification call. Scammers can divert calls so that it appears HMRC is answering, when in fact you are being connected to a fraudulent call centre.

When do HMRC collectors visit?

HMRC debt collectors will usually visit between 8am and 6pm, Monday to Friday. If a collector calls at any other time and you want to confirm their identity, you can arrange for them to return between 8am and 6pm, Monday to Friday.

How to confirm an HMRC officer’s identity

A genuine officer will show you an HMRC identification card with their name, photograph and HMRC serial number. To check it is above board:

1.      Make a note of the officer’s name and serial number.

2.      Use the HMRC telephone number the officer gives you: 03000 565 656.

3.      Call that number and give the adviser the officer’s name and serial number.

4.      Wait for the adviser to confirm whether the person is a genuine HMRC officer.

This number is available 24 hours a day and is used only to verify the identity of HMRC officers in face-to-face situations.

How to confirm an HMRC collector’s identity

A collector will also carry an HMRC identification card showing their name, photograph and serial number. The steps are similar:

1.      Make a note of the name and serial number on the card.

2.      Phone HMRC on 0300 200 3862.

3.      Give the name and serial number to the adviser so they can confirm the collector represents HMRC.

At a glance

	HMRC officer	HMRC collector
Verification number	03000 565 656	0300 200 3862
Availability	24 hours a day	Not specified
What to give the adviser	Name and serial number	Name and serial number
Usual visiting times	Not specified	8am to 6pm, Monday to Friday

Quick checklist

•        Ask for identification and don’t let anyone pressure you to skip checks.

•        Note the name and serial number from the ID card.

•        Call HMRC from your own mobile, not from a phone the visitor offers.

•        Be cautious if a visit happens outside 8am to 6pm, Monday to Friday, and arrange a return visit within those hours.

•        Don’t hand over money, bank details or personal information until identity is confirmed.

Double-check the official contact list

HMRC also publishes an official list of genuine HMRC contacts on GOV.UK. Checking it can help you decide whether the person on your doorstep is truly from HMRC or a fraudster.

The bottom line

Genuine HMRC staff will not mind being checked. If anyone objects to you verifying their identity, treat that as a red flag. Take a moment, make the call, and stay safe.