A significant change is underway in how individuals access HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC) digital services. The introduction of GOV.UK One Login marks the beginning of a move away from the long-standing Government Gateway system.
At the moment, this mainly affects people who are new to HMRC’s digital services. If you are signing up for the first time, you will now create a GOV.UK One Login rather than a traditional Government Gateway ID.
For those already using a Government Gateway account (for example, to file a Self Assessment tax return), nothing is changing just yet.
Why the change?
The government’s longer-term aim is to create a single login for all online government services. Instead of having separate accounts for different departments, you will eventually use one secure login for everything – from tax and company filings to passports and driving licences. There are currently over 200 government services requiring login via GOV.UK One Login and this figure is set to grow.
The idea is simple: prove who you are once, then use the same login across different services and government departments.
HMRC is taking a gradual approach to the switch though in recognition of the impact this change will have on existing customers – which is why current users are not being moved over immediately. The full transition from Government Gateway is expected to be complete by the end of 2027.
Signing up for the first time
If you are setting up access to HMRC services for the first time, you will need to:
- Create an account using an email address and password (rather than a 10–12 digit ID);
- Go through an identity verification process; and
- Answer some security questions.
In most cases, you will need photo ID, such as a UK passport or photocard driving licence, and access to a phone with a camera.
There are three ways to verify your identity:
- Using the GOV.UK One Login app;
- Answering questions online; and
- Visiting a Post Office.
Some of the online security questions may relate to financial information, such as bank accounts, credit cards, loans or mobile phone contracts.
Current users
There is no need to do anything right now.
You should continue using your existing Government Gateway details for HMRC services. HMRC will contact you when it is time to make the switch.
If you already use GOV.UK One Login for another service (for example, your State Pension), you will continue using that login for those services, while still using Government Gateway for HMRC matters – at least for now.
How M+A Partners can help
As you would expect with any major change, questions are likely to crop up. The government has published online guidance and contact information to help users navigate the new system.
If you would like to discuss how this may affect you, please get in touch with your usual M+A Partners’ contact or with me using the details below.
