HMRC Telephone Number Free 0800 0345 Contact Guide

The HMRC Telephone Number Free 0800 0345 lets you contact HM Revenue and Customs without paying call charges. You can use this free helpline for self-assessment queries, PAYE tax codes, Child Benefit, tax credits, and general tax advice. Calling the free 0800 number saves money compared to 0300 numbers, making it the best option for quick and cost-free support.

What is the HMRC Telephone Number Free 0800 0345 Used For?

The HMRC Telephone Number Free 0800 0345 is a direct helpline that allows UK taxpayers to contact HM Revenue and Customs without paying call charges. This freephone number is particularly useful for individuals and businesses who need quick support with tax, benefits, or payments.

When you dial the number, you are connected to HMRC customer service agents who handle a wide range of enquiries, including:

• Self-assessment tax returns

• PAYE (Pay As You Earn) queries

• National Insurance contributions

• Child Benefit claims and changes

• Tax credits

• General tax advice

Unlike local-rate or premium-rate numbers, calling the HMRC free 0800 number ensures you do not incur extra charges, making it an accessible way to resolve tax matters.

Why Should you Use the HMRC Free Helpline Instead of Other Numbers?

Not all HMRC numbers are free. Many start with 0300, which may cost depending on your phone contract. The HMRC Telephone Number Free 0800 0345 stands out because:

• It works from most landlines and mobile networks at no charge.

• It reduces waiting costs when call queues are long.

• It provides direct access to tax specialists without hidden fees.

👉 According to a financial expert quoted in The Guardian,

“Many taxpayers avoid calling HMRC due to cost concerns, but using the free 0800 helpline removes that barrier.”

When is the Best Time to Call HMRC Telephone Number Free 0800 0345?

HMRC helplines can experience heavy traffic, especially near tax deadlines. Knowing the best times to call helps reduce waiting times.

What are HMRC opening hours?

The HMRC free helpline generally operates during the following hours:

How long is the average wait time?

• During January (self-assessment deadline), waiting times can exceed 30 minutes.

• In off-peak months, callers are often connected within 5–10 minutes.

Tip: Always keep your National Insurance number, UTR (Unique Taxpayer Reference), and relevant documents ready before calling.

What Common Issues Can you Resolve by Calling HMRC Free Number 0800 0345?

You can use the helpline for almost all personal tax and benefits queries. Common issues include:

• Self-Assessment support – help filing, amending, or checking your tax return.

• PAYE queries – questions about tax codes, payslips, and employer deductions.

• Child Benefit changes – updating family details or making a new claim.

• Tax credit enquiries – renewals, overpayments, or entitlement issues.

• National Insurance – checking contributions or payment gaps.

• Refunds and rebates – chasing HMRC tax refunds owed to you.

This makes the HMRC Telephone Number Free 0800 0345 a versatile point of contact for both individuals and businesses.

Are there alternatives to calling HMRC on 0800 0345?

Yes. If you prefer not to call, HMRC offers several alternative contact methods:

• HMRC online services – log into your personal tax account for real-time updates.

• HMRC app – available on iOS and Android for tax reminders and records.

• Webchat – available for selected services, such as VAT or Child Benefit.

• Postal service – send documents and forms to HMRC office addresses.

📌 Calling remains the quickest method for urgent issues, but digital options are growing in popularity.

How Can you Prepare Before Calling HMRC Telephone Number Free 0800 0345?

Preparation helps resolve your query faster. Before dialling:

• Have your National Insurance number ready.

• Keep your Unique Taxpayer Reference (UTR) handy if discussing self-assessment.

• Gather recent payslips, P60s, or correspondence from HMRC.

• Write down your question clearly to avoid confusion.

This ensures HMRC can verify your identity quickly and provide accurate support.

How Does HMRC Support Disabled Callers on 0800 0345?

HMRC provides extra services to ensure accessibility for all taxpayers. If you have hearing or speech difficulties, you can still use the HMRC Telephone Number Free 0800 0345 through specialised support options.

Can deaf or hard-of-hearing callers use HMRC free number?

Yes. HMRC offers:

• Relay UK service (formerly Text Relay): Callers can dial 18001 then 0800 0345, and a relay assistant will type or speak messages on your behalf.

• Video Relay Service (VRS): British Sign Language (BSL) users can connect via video link to an interpreter, who then contacts HMRC on your behalf.

Does HMRC offer braille or large print correspondence?

Yes. Taxpayers can request documents in braille, large print, or audio formats by contacting the accessibility team through the 0800 helpline.

This makes the HMRC free number an inclusive service for all UK taxpayers.

What is the Difference Between HMRC 0800 and 0300 Numbers?

Many taxpayers get confused between HMRC’s free 0800 numbers and local-rate 0300 numbers.

Key takeaway: If possible, always use the HMRC Telephone Number Free 0800 0345, as it avoids call charges, especially when queues are long.

How Long Do you Usually Wait When Calling HMRC Free Helpline?

HMRC call waiting times vary depending on the time of year.

• January (Self-Assessment deadline): Up to 40–60 minutes wait.

• April (new tax year): Around 20–30 minutes wait.

• Off-peak months (summer, autumn): Often under 10 minutes.

Does HMRC offer a callback service?

Yes. If lines are very busy, HMRC sometimes offers a callback option. You can:

• Enter your phone number, hang up, and wait for HMRC to call you back.

• This avoids long periods of being on hold.

👉 However, callback availability is limited and not offered on all services.

What Should you Do if the HMRC Helpline is Down or Too Busy?

There are times when HMRC helplines may be temporarily unavailable due to high demand or system maintenance.

What are the alternatives if you can’t get through?

• Use your online personal tax account – accessible 24/7 for most tax queries.

• Try webchat services – available for VAT, Child Benefit, and some PAYE queries.

• Send a secure online message through HMRC’s digital account.

• Post your documents if urgent but not time-sensitive.

If your query is close to a deadline (e.g., self-assessment submission), HMRC usually allows flexibility if you can prove you attempted to contact them.

Conclusion

The HMRC Telephone Number Free 0800 0345 is an essential contact point for taxpayers across the UK. It saves money, provides quick access to expert advice, and helps resolve issues without hidden call charges. Whether you need help with self-assessment, PAYE, tax credits, or refunds, this helpline ensures your query is handled efficiently.

FAQs about HMRC Telephone Number Free 0800 0345

Is HMRC 0800 0345 number free from mobiles?

Yes, calls to HMRC’s free 0800 numbers are free from most UK mobile and landline providers.

Can I call HMRC outside the UK?

No, the free 0800 0345 number works only within the UK. For international callers, HMRC provides alternative numbers.

What documents do I need when calling HMRC?

You should have your National Insurance number, UTR (for self-assessment), and any recent correspondence.

What happens if I can’t get through to HMRC?

You can try calling during quieter hours, use HMRC’s online services, or send a secure message through your tax account.

Is there a different number for HMRC business enquiries?

Yes, businesses often use dedicated helplines, but the 0800 0345 number remains free for general queries.