I can’t log into my Self Assessment!

Struggling to log into your Self Assessment account? You’re not alone. With the 31st January deadline fast approaching, the system often experiences high traffic, making it harder for users to access their accounts. But don’t panic – there are ways around it! ✨

Why can’t I log into my Self Assessment?

This is the nightmare situation that we all dread. When you go to pay your Self Assessment and for some unknown reason, you can’t login! 😱 But don’t worry. You can get around it. We’d first recommend that you look at the service status page to see if HMRC’s system is reported to not be working, or whether the problem is at your end. 

If the problem is theirs, you can appeal any late penalties you incur with evidence of the issue. 

I can’t log into my Self Asssment with my current details 

At the risk of stating the obvious, double-check that you’re using the right details to log into your Self Assessment. 🔍 If you are, check the following:

• Have you registered for Self Assessment?
• Did HMRC send you a UTR number?
• Try your browser on Incognito Mode 🥸
• Try a different browser (Chrome, Safari, Firefox)
• If all else fails, speak to the HMRC helpline on 0300-200-3310

Help! What else can I do?

First things first, let HMRC know what’s going on. The sooner they’re in the loop, the quicker they can help you sort things out. You can even reach out to their digital assistant for a bit of extra guidance.

Use an alternative to paying online

If you can’t log into your Self Assessment account, don’t worry – there are more ways to pay for your tax return. It doesn’t necessarily need to be done through your online account. If you’re paying for any of the below services and more, you can also try by post or directly via your bank. 

• Self-employed
• Rental income
• Profits from investment
• Pension relief

To pay by post, you can send a paying-in slip addressed to HMRC, Direct, BX5 5BD. The cheque is payable to HM Revenue and Customs only. You should also include your UTR number. 📬

If HMRC have already sent you a paying-in split to pay them directly, you can fill out the details and pay them by cash or cheque at your bank. When you include your UTR number, you’ll have to add a ‘K’ at the end of it when you pay by this method.

Use an online tax service

And finally, the method we’ve all been waiting for. 😏

At TaxScouts, taking the hassle and stress out of tax returns is our speciality. Our turnaround is quick (roughly 2-3 days once we’ve got all of your information) however, we’d still advise that you give as much of a wide berth as you can. 

Forget about logging into your Self Assessment. We’ll do it for you! And all online. But however smart the method of doing your tax return you choose, give yourself a working week before the deadline at least. Things can go wrong and the penalties can be steep!