10 min read
If you’re due to file a Self Assessment tax return, you’ll probably expect to hear from HMRC at some point. Reminders, payment prompts, or updates are all part of the process. That’s normal. The problem is that scammers know this too. And every year, as the January deadline gets closer, they use that expectation to their advantage. What isn’t normal is the growing number of fake messages, calls and emails pretending to be from HMRC and trying to catch taxpayers out.
HMRC has recently warned that thousands of Self Assessment scams have been reported over the past year, with activity increasing as the 31 January deadline approaches. As accountants working with UK businesses and individuals, we’re seeing more clients asking, “Is this message real?” or “Should I be worried about this email?”
This blog explains what’s happening, how these scams usually work, and what you can do to stay safe.
Why Self Assessment scams are on the rise
HMRC has confirmed that more than 135,500 suspected HMRC-related scams have been reported since February 2025. Of these, over 4,800 were linked specifically to Self Assessment, while around 29,000 involved fake tax refund claims.
That’s a huge number. And it explains why HMRC has had to shut down nearly 25,000 fake websites and phone numbers during the same period.
The timing is no coincidence. Fraudsters target periods when people expect official contact. The run-up to the Self Assessment deadline is ideal. People are busy, sometimes stressed, and often dealing with tax matters they don’t handle every day. That’s when a message claiming to be from HMRC can slip past your guard.
How these scams usually play out
Most Self Assessment scams rely on pressure and urgency. The message might say you owe tax and must act immediately to avoid penalties. Or it might claim you’re due a refund and need to click a link to claim it before it expires.
Some people receive text messages. Others get emails that look official, complete with HMRC branding and formal language. There are also phone calls where the caller sounds convincing and uses threatening language to scare people into giving up information.
The end goal is always the same. Scammers want your personal details, bank information, or access to your HMRC online account. Once they have that, the damage can be serious.
What HMRC will never ask you to do
One of the simplest ways to spot a scam is to know how HMRC really operates. HMRC has been very clear about this.
HMRC will never:
- leave voicemails threatening arrest or legal action
- ask for personal or financial information by text or email
- contact you by email, text or phone to tell you about a refund or ask you to claim one
If you are owed a tax refund, it will be handled through your HMRC online account or the official HMRC app. You won’t be asked to click a link in a message or share bank details out of the blue.
Don’t rely on caller ID alone. Fraudsters can make calls appear to come from trusted numbers, so a call showing HMRC on your screen isn’t always what it seems.
A new way to report suspicious activity
HMRC introduced a new online reporting tool in December 2025, making it easier to flag suspicious activity linked to your HMRC account.
This tool can be used if you notice things like:
- login or access codes being sent to your phone when you haven’t tried to sign in
- being locked out of your account because your password has been changed
- changes to your tax records that you didn’t make
- letters or payments from HMRC that you weren’t expecting
The reporting tool isn’t just for individual taxpayers. Accountants and agents can also use it for their clients, which is useful if someone isn’t sure how to describe the issue or if there are several cases to flag at once.
Why extra care is needed before 31 January
The deadline to submit and pay Self Assessment tax for the 2024 to 2025 tax year is 31 January 2026. This is when scam activity usually increases.
People are often busy pulling paperwork together and organising payments. When time feels tight, it’s easier to react quickly. Scammers use this by sending messages that mention fines or urgent action.
Stopping to think before responding can help avoid unnecessary stress later.
Practical steps to protect yourself
You can lower your risk by sticking to a few basics:
- Avoid clicking links or opening attachments from unexpected messages
- Check GOV.UK if you’re unsure how HMRC would normally contact you
- Use strong, different passwords for your accounts
- Be careful, even if the message looks genuine
If something doesn’t feel right, it’s always safer to stop and check.
Read more: First time filing a Self Assessment tax return? Here’s exactly what to do
How we help our clients stay safe
Being an accountant isn’t just about filing returns. It’s also about helping clients protect themselves from scams, which often increase around tax deadlines. We make sure clients understand how HMRC really contacts people, so they’re less likely to be caught out.
When a client receives a message they’re unsure about, we always recommend checking with us first. We can help decide whether it’s genuine, report it where needed, and support clients if there’s been any unexpected activity on their HMRC account.
For many clients, having someone familiar to sense-check things makes all the difference.
Final thoughts
Self Assessment scams are becoming more common and harder to spot. With thousands already reported, the risk is clear.
With the 31 January deadline getting closer, take extra care. Question unexpected messages, check GOV.UK, if you’re unsure, and don’t rush into sharing personal or financial details.
If something doesn’t feel right, report it. And if you need support or reassurance with your Self Assessment return, speak to your accountant. A calm, careful approach now can save a lot of stress later.
