A Complete Step-By-Step Guide for UK Taxpayers in 2026
Setting up your HMRC Personal Tax Account is essential for managing your UK tax affairs online. This comprehensive guide walks you through every step of creating your Government Gateway account, from gathering the required documents to accessing your new personal tax account.
Whether you need to submit a Self Assessment tax return, check your tax code, claim tax refunds, or manage your tax credits, your HMRC online account is your gateway to all HMRC digital services.
Step 1 of 12
Getting your documents ready beforehand makes the process much smoother. Grab a cup of tea and find the following:
Mobile Phone
For receiving security verification codes
Email Address
One you can access easily for verification
National Insurance Number
Your unique NI number (format: AB123456C)
Date of Birth & Address
Your current residential address details
Recent Payslip or P60
Latest payslip or P60 from your employer
Valid UK Driving Licence
Current UK photocard driving licence
UK Passport
Valid UK passport for identity verification
Pro Tip:
Have all these documents ready before you start. The registration process may time out if you take too long to find information.
Step 2 of 12
Follow the link below and head to the official Government website and click the green button to 'Start now'.
Always ensure you're on the official GOV.UK website. The URL should start with https://www.gov.uk
Visit GOV.UK Personal Tax AccountSecurity Warning:
Beware of fake HMRC websites. Never enter your details on sites that don't have the official GOV.UK domain. HMRC will never contact you via email asking you to click links to update your details.
Step 3 of 12
On the Personal Tax Account page, scroll down and look for the green "Start now" button. This will begin the registration process.
The button is typically located below the description of what you can do with your personal tax account.
Step 4 of 12
You'll be taken to the Government Gateway sign-in page. Under the section "New users of Government Gateway", click the "Create sign in details" link.
Government Gateway is the secure sign-in system used to access various UK government services online, including your HMRC tax account, self-assessment, and other digital services.
Step 5 of 12
You'll first be prompted to enter your email address. You'll then receive a verification code. Once you've entered that code and it has been accepted, click 'Continue'.
Enter your email address
Use an email you check regularly
Check your inbox
Look for an email from HMRC with a verification code
Enter the code
Type the verification code and click Continue
Step 6 of 12
You'll then be asked to enter your full name exactly as it appears on your official documents.
Important:
Enter your name exactly as it appears on your passport, driving licence, or other official ID documents to avoid verification issues later.
Step 7 of 12
You'll be prompted to set a strong password (10 characters or more). This password will be used to access your account in the future.
Security Tip:
Store your password securely in a password manager. Never share it with anyone, even if they claim to be from HMRC.
Step 8 of 12
Your HMRC Government Gateway user ID will be shown on the screen and an email will be sent. Please keep a copy of this ID and remember the password you have used.
Step 9 of 12
You'll now be asked to choose which type of personal tax account you'd like to create. As you are creating your personal tax account, select the first option:
For personal tax accounts, tax credits, Self Assessment, and Child Benefit
Other account types available:
Step 10 of 12
For additional security, you'll need to set up two-factor authentication using your mobile phone number. This adds an extra layer of protection to your account.
Enter your mobile number
Include the country code (e.g., +44 for UK)
Receive SMS code
A verification code will be sent via text message
Enter the code
Type in the 6-digit code you received
Why is this important?
Two-factor authentication significantly improves your account security. Even if someone obtains your password, they won't be able to access your account without your phone.
Step 11 of 12
Now you'll need to verify your identity by entering your personal details and providing information from your documents.
Note: Have all your documents ready. The session may time out if you take too long to complete this step.
Step 12 of 12
Your account is now active
Your HMRC Personal Tax Account has been successfully created. You can now access all HMRC online services using your Government Gateway ID and password.
Common questions about setting up your HMRC Personal Tax Account
Setting up your HMRC account is just the beginning. Let our expert accountants at Taxwise Accountancy help you manage your tax obligations efficiently.
Whether you need help with Self Assessment, tax planning, bookkeeping, or general accounting advice, our experienced team in Milton Keynes and Luton is here to support you.
Professional accountants with years of experience
Focus on your business while we handle your taxes
Stay compliant with HMRC regulations