The HMRC helpline can solve most PAYE issues in a single phone call, but only if you can get through. Wait times often climb past an hour during January and April. The good news is that the majority of common questions can be answered without a phone call at all.
Here are the correct numbers, the best times to ring, and the online routes that now handle most cases faster.
The main HMRC numbers
- Income Tax general enquiries: 0300 200 3300 (Monday to Friday, 8am to 6pm).
- Self Assessment: 0300 200 3310 (Monday to Friday, 8am to 6pm).
- Employer enquiries: 0300 200 3200.
- National Insurance: 0300 200 3500.
- Online services helpdesk: 0300 200 3600.
- Textphone: use Relay UK on 18001 followed by the number.
HMRC occasionally changes opening hours, so always double-check the current schedule on the official contact HMRC page.
Best times to ring
Call volumes are lowest first thing in the morning (8am to 9am) and in the final hour before close (5pm to 6pm). Avoid Mondays, the day after a bank holiday, and the last week of January. Keep your National Insurance number, a recent payslip, and your tax code ready before you dial.
When you do not need to call
These tasks are now online-only or are faster online:
- Check or change your tax code: use the Personal Tax Account.
- Claim a refund: Personal Tax Account or P800 letter.
- File Self Assessment: online return through your HMRC account.
- Update personal details: address, marital status, and bank details online.
- Check National Insurance record: gov.uk/check-national-insurance-record.
For tax code checks in particular, our tax code calculator often answers the question before you need to ring anyone.
HMRC webchat
HMRC now runs a webchat inside the Personal Tax Account for several topics, including tax codes and Self Assessment. Wait times are usually shorter than the phone line, and you get a written record of what was said, which can be useful later.
Scams to watch
HMRC will never ring to demand an immediate payment or threaten arrest. If you receive such a call, hang up and ring HMRC back on the official number from the GOV.UK website. Report the scam number to HMRC so others can be warned.
When to use an agent
Accountants and tax advisers have their own HMRC phone line and often resolve complex queries in a single call. If your issue involves multiple years or involves a business, an agent can usually sort it faster than you can over the general helpline.
The bottom line
The HMRC helpline still has its place, but it is rarely the fastest way to answer a routine tax question in 2026. Try the Personal Tax Account first, webchat second, and reach for the phone for the more complex problems that genuinely need a human.