Access HMRC Online: Government Gateway ID and GOV.UK One Login

You’ll need to register and sign in to use HMRC’s online services so you can access things like your Personal Tax Account. Existing customers will use a Government Gateway account, but this sign-in route is gradually being replaced by GOV.UK One Login.

In this article we’ll explain how both the Government Gateway and GOV.UK One Login services work, and who needs to use them.

How do I create a new Government Gateway account?

If you need to set up a new Government Gateway account, here’s what you need to do:

• Go to the GOV.UK sign in page
• Click ‘Sign in’
• Then slect ‘Create sign in details’ and click ‘Continue’
• Enter the email address you want to be attached to your account. An authorisation code will be sent to that email, which will need to be entered so you can verify your account.
• Enter your full name
• Set up a password when prompted
• Set up a recovery password to use in case you can’t access your account in the future

Once you complete these steps you’ll receive a unique 12-digit Government Gateway User ID, which you can use to access and register for other digital services. Make a note of your Government Gateway User ID and keep it somewhere safe so you don’t forget it.

You will also need to share your Government Gateway ID with your accountant if you want them to act on your behalf as your agent.

Just be aware that registering for a Gateway account doesn’t automatically enrol you for other online services – you will need to sign up for these separately!

Once your ID has been created, you can use your new account to set up other services such as signing up for Self Assessment tax returns.

What information do I need when setting up a Government Gateway account?

Setting up a Government Gateway account is usually a straightforward process. You’ll need:

• Your full name
• Your chosen email address
• A secure password
• A memorable word for your recovery password

Do I need separate Government Gateway accounts if I have more than one business?

Although HMRC advise businesses to use one Government Gateway account to register for everything, some people find it useful to create a separate Gateway account for each one – particularly those running limited companies. That way you can use one login for each type of tax or service relating to that business, helping you (and HMRC) to stay organised.

When will I need to use GOV.UK One Login?

At the moment One Login isn’t available for every single service, so you may still need a Government Gateway account depending on what you need to access. Existing Gateway account holders will be contacted directly by HMRC when it’s time to switch over but as always, be aware of scams! Search for the service online to check its login status, rather than clicking any links in an email or text.

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