Be wary of Self Assessment scams

HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) have issued a reminder to be careful about scam attempts that target people filing Self Assessment tax returns.

HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) have issued a reminder to be careful about scam attempts that target people filing Self Assessment tax returns. In the last year, nearly 150,000 scam attempts were referred to HMRC, a 16.7% increase on last year. With the 31 January 2025 filing deadline approaching, fraudsters are likely to step up their activities.

HMRC reports that around half of all scam reports in the last year were fake tax rebate claims. Fraudsters are usually aiming to get hold of personal information and banking details.

If you receive an email, text or phone call from someone claiming to be from HMRC that asks you for personal information or offers you a tax rebate, there is a useful checklist here that can help you identify a scam.

It is helpful to know that HMRC will never leave voicemails threatening legal action or arrest. Neither will they ask for personal or financial information over text message.

HMRC also will not contact you by email, text, or phone to announce a refund or ask you to request one.

If you have been contacted by someone claiming to be from HMRC and feel unsure whether it is a scam, or you would like to check whether you are due a tax refund, call us at any time and we would be happy to help you.

www.gov.uk/government/news/scams-warning-as-self-assessment-deadline-loom

Exeter Living Awards Accounting and Tax Services for Landlords

© 2025 Peplows. All rights reserved.

We use cookies on this website, you can find more information about cookies here.

Peplows Limited Registered in England Company Number: 03133714. Regulated for a range of investment business activities by the ICAEW.
Registered Office: Moorgate House, King Street, Newton Abbot TQ12 2LG. A list of Directors is available at the Registered Office.
Peplows Audit Limited Registered in England Company Number: 16058884. Registered to carry on audit work in the UK by the ICAEW.
Registered Office: Moorgate House, King Street, Newton Abbot TQ12 2LG. A list of Directors is available at the Registered Office.
Details about our audit registration can be viewed at www.auditregister.org.uk, under reference number C011007443