Financial Matters with Gary Edgerton: Do you use the HMRC app?

More than 1.7 million people are already using the HMRC app every month, which enables users to access services such as making a Child Benefit claim, finding their National Insurance number and a tax calculator to estimate their take-home pay.

Between July and September 2024, 711,382 new users downloaded the app, and there was a 39% increase in app activity compared to the same period last year – up from 20.93 million sessions to 29.22 million. And nearly £300 million has been paid to HMRC via the app so far this financial year.

The most popular features used on the app between July and September this year were to check State Pension contributions (1.9 million sessions), manage Child Benefit (1.6 million sessions) and to view annual tax summaries (1.4 million sessions).

Myrtle Lloyd, HMRC’s Director General for Customer Services, said:

“One of the main priorities for HMRC is improving its customer services and this incredibly useful and user-friendly app is a great example of how tax can be made much easier for people.

“Whether you’re a student looking for your National Insurance number or a new parent wanting to claim Child Benefit, the HMRC app has a range of tools for you, at your fingertips. I urge everyone to download it today.”

The HMRC app is rated 4.7/5 and 4.8/5 respectively on the Google Play and Apple Store and ranks among both of their top 10 finance apps.

The app offers all taxpayers quick access to check their current tax position on most basic tax issues. However, ignorance of your tax affairs, how much tax you owe, when you should pay and so on, is no excuse for non-compliance.

If you need help or advice for more complex issues, such as completing a self-assessment tax return or reducing your tax liability, please see an accountant who can assist you, whilst also ensuring that you stay compliant with HMRC regulations.