As the 31 January Self-Assessment deadline approaches, HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC) has issued a serious warning to taxpayers across the UK: Self-Assessment scams are on the rise.

Since February 2025, more than 4,800 Self-Assessment-related scams have been reported to HMRC. In total, over 135,500 suspected HMRC scams have been flagged in just the last 10 months — including 29,000 fake tax refund scams.

With millions of people filing tax returns at this time of year, scammers are taking advantage of the increased HMRC activity to trick unsuspecting taxpayers.

How the Scams Work

Scammers often use persuasive and threatening tactics, especially in the run-up to the tax deadline. These may include:

• Fake emails claiming you owe urgent tax
• Text messages offering a “tax refund”
• Phone calls threatening legal action, arrest, or penalties
• Requests for personal or financial information

These messages are designed to create panic and pressure people into acting quickly without checking whether the contact is genuine.

HMRC’s Official Warning

Lucy Pike, HMRC’s Chief Security Officer, said:

“Millions of people file a tax return each year and scammers mimic HMRC to try and catch unsuspecting victims out.

I urge people to stay vigilant. If any emails, text messages or phone calls appear suspicious, do not click on links or share personal information — report it directly to HMRC.”

HMRC has already shut down nearly 25,000 fake websites and phone numbers in the last 10 months — but criminals continue to adapt their methods.

Important: What HMRC Will NEVER Do

HMRC has made it clear that it will never:

• Leave voicemails threatening arrest or legal action
• Ask for personal or financial details by text or email
• Contact you by phone, email, or SMS about a tax refund
• Ask you to click links to claim a refund

If you receive a message claiming otherwise, it is almost certainly a scam.

How to Protect Yourself from Tax Scams

✅ Protect

• Stop and think before sharing personal or financial information
• Use strong, unique passwords for all accounts

✅ Recognise

• Be cautious of unexpected emails, texts, or calls
• Don’t click on links or download attachments
• Don’t trust caller ID — phone numbers can be spoofed
• Always check GOV.UK to confirm genuine HMRC contact

✅ Report

• Forward suspicious emails to phishing@hmrc.gov.uk
• Forward scam text messages to 60599
• Report fake phone calls via GOV.UK
• If money has been taken, contact your bank immediately and report it to Report Fraud (or call 101 in Scotland)

By reporting scams, you help protect others from becoming victims.

Filing Your Tax Return Safely

The deadline to file and pay your 2024–2025 Self Assessment tax return is 31 January 2026.

You can file safely:

• Through your HMRC online account
• Via the free HMRC app
• Or by using a trusted professional accountant

Using a qualified accountant not only reduces the risk of scams but also helps ensure your return is accurate, compliant, and submitted on time.

Final Thoughts

Tax season is stressful enough without falling victim to fraud. As the deadline approaches, stay alert, question unexpected messages, and only deal with HMRC through official channels.

If in doubt — don’t click, don’t reply, and don’t share information.

👉 When it comes to tax, caution is always cheaper than a mistake.

📞 Contact NextGen Accountants
📱 +44 208 123 7363 | +44 786 269 6795
📧 info@ngaccountants.co.uk
📍 Office 5046, 321–323 High Road, Chadwell Heath, Essex, England, RM6 6AX

Disclaimer: This blog is for general information only and does not constitute professional advice. NextGen Accountants accept no liability for any loss arising from reliance on its content — please seek tailored advice before making decisions