HMRC Use of QR Codes
HMRC may include a QR code on letters or leaflets to provide additional information or assistance. QR codes can be seen on many HMRC communications, including the following situations:
- Child Benefit Leaflet for New Parents: HMRC sends leaflets to hospitals for new parents, encouraging them to apply for Child Benefit online after registering their baby’s birth. The QR code on this leaflet directs you to the guidance for making a Child Benefit claim.
- HMRC App Leaflet and Envelope: Certain letters from HMRC may contain a leaflet about an HMRC app, with a QR code on the envelope or leaflet itself. Scanning this code will take you to information about the HMRC app.
- Letter CHB297B – Full-Time Non-Advanced Education: If you claim Child Benefit, you'll receive this letter before your child turns 16. It includes a QR code that leads to guidance on extending your claim online if needed.
- Letter P2 – Tax Code Notice: If your tax code changes, you might receive a letter with a QR code. This code directs you to HMRC's guidance on understanding your new tax code.
- Letter SA250 – Self Assessment Welcome Letter: When you register for self-assessment, HMRC sends a welcome letter with your Unique Taxpayer Reference (UTR). The QR code on this letter will take you to HMRC’s self-assessment contact information.
- Letter SA300 – Self Assessment Statement: If you receive a summary of your self-assessment balance, the QR code on the letter will guide you to information on understanding your self-assessment statement.
- Letter SA316 – Self Assessment Notice to File: If HMRC records show that you need to submit a self-assessment tax return, this letter will include a QR code that links to guidance on how to file your return online.
Remember, you can scan these QR codes to quickly access the relevant HMRC guidance and support for each situation.
What consideration should I give before using the QR Codes?
Criminals can provide QR Codes that once accessed, send you to websites that appear to be genuine but allow them to steal your information. HMRC confirm their QR Codes should never take you directly to a page where you need to input personal information. If the QR Code has been sent to you in an email you should ensure that email is genuine before using any QR Code.
If you have accessed the QR Code through searching in the HMRC pages on .gov.uk there can be some assurance that these are genuine links but please still exercise caution and assess the surrounding information and links before utilising any code.
In the event that having followed a link, if you are being asked for personal information, stop and again assess whether the website seems genuine. Any doubts, close the page and try to find the information you need through the HMRC pages on .gov.uk. HMRC have an email address to contact if you have suspicions someone purporting to be HMRC may be phishing (
phishing@hmrc.gov.uk). HMRC have examples of phishing emails, suspicious phone calls and texts on their website:
Examples of phishing emails, suspicious phone calls and texts - GOV.UK