The fastest way to process an HMRC change of address is online via your Personal Tax Account (PTA) or the HMRC Mobile App. This updates your records across PAYE, National Insurance, and State Pensions within 24–48 hours.
Alternatively, you can change your address by calling the HMRC Income Tax Helpline on 0300 200 3300 or, if you cannot use online services, by posting a letter to HM Revenue and Customs, BX9 1AS.
This guide will cover:
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- HMRC change of address online methods
- How to tell HMRC change of address by phone
- How long does it take for HMRC address change
- And much more
Why Do I Need to Tell HMRC I’ve Moved?
When you move house, making a change address HMRC update is essential to keep your finances on track. You need to contact HMRC either online or using the HMRC change-of-address phone number:
- To make sure your tax records are accurate
- To avoid missing important letters or deadlines
- To keep your benefits or tax credits running smoothly
- To prevent identity fraud or delays in refunds
What are the Ways to Contact HMRC to Change the Address?
Fortunately, there are many ways to contact HMRC to change the address. Hence you can choose the method that best suits your comfort level and specific tax situation:
- Online: the fastest method
- By phone: Using a contact number for HMRC change of address
- By Post: Writing a letter
Also remember that depending on your circumstances such as whether you are a general employee, self employed or claiming Child Benefit, you might need to use a slightly different approach. This is to make sure all your records are updated correctly.
HMRC Change of Address Online: The Easiest Way
For almost everyone in the UK the easiest way to tell HMRC you have moved is by using their official website.
Using the Personal Tax Account (PTA)
- Log In: Head over to the GOV.UK website. Sign in to your Personal Tax Account. Make sure you have your Government Gateway ID and password ready to go.
- Verify Identity: If it is your first time you will need to pass a security check. This usually means giving them things like your National Insurance (NI) number. Also the details from a UK passport or driving licence.
- Update Details: Once you are in, look for where it says something like ‘Manage account details’ or ‘Change of name or address’.
- Enter New Address: Follow the instructions on the screen. Just type in your new home address and confirm everything is correct. That’s it. done!
Using the PTA generally updates your address for:
- Income Tax (if you are employed under PAYE)
- National Insurance
- Child Benefit
- State Pension
For the above mentioned list of HMRC-administered services, updating your address through your PTA is sufficient. You will need to notify other government departments like your local council for Council Tax separately.
HMRC Change of Address by Phone (Helpline Numbers)
If you are looking to complete an HMRC change of address by phone, you can call their dedicated helplines.
Call HMRC on the income tax helpline: 0300 200 3300. Monday to Friday, office hours.
Be prepared to confirm identity details such as:
- National Insurance number
- Full name and date of birth
- Old address
- Employer details if applicable
While calling can mean waiting in queues during peak times, it processes faster than writing a letter. Also the specific number you call depends on the type of tax you are paying.
- Income Tax: Call 0300 200 3300. You will need your National Insurance number.
- Self Assessment: Call 0300 200 3310. You will need your Unique Taxpayer Reference (UTR).
- Child Benefit: Call 0300 200 3100. Have your National Insurance number or Child Benefit number ready.
HMRC Change of Address by Post
Writing to HMRC is definitely the slowest option, so only use this if other methods are not possible. You must ensure you send your letter to the correct department’s address. Include your full name, National Insurance number, old address and new address.
Send your letter to:
HM Revenue and Customs
Pay As You Earn and Self Assessment
BX9 1AS
United Kingdom
We recommend keeping a copy of the letter for your own records.
Is There A Webchat Option?
Yes, HMRC offers a digital assistant and live chat. As per HMRC, 75% of people using the digital assistant find the answer without having to call.
HMRC webchat is primarily for technical assistance with online services, not the main method for changing your address.
Can I Use The HMRC App To Change My Address?
Yes, you can. The HMRC app is available on both Android and iOS. It’s free and secure.
Once logged in:
- Tap “Your profile”
- Choose “Address”
- Add your new details
- Confirm and submit
It’s this simple and quick. You can do it while the kettle boils.
What About Changing My Business Address with HMRC?
If you run a limited company, updating your personal address with HMRC does not change your company’s registered office address.
Updating Your Company’s Legal Address
- Companies House: The registered office address must be updated separately with Companies House via their online filing service.
- Business Tax Account: For all other business taxes (like VAT or Corporation Tax) for sole traders or partnerships you can usually update the business address through your Business Tax Account on GOV.UK.
How Do I Update My Address for Self Assessment and Tax Credits?
While the Personal Tax Account covers the basics, HMRC manages different tax and benefit schemes separately. Depending on your situation you might need a different contact method to make sure the address is changed everywhere.
Here is the breakdown for the two most common areas people need to update after a move.
| Tax Product | Preferred/Easiest Method | Alternative Contact Method | Key Details You Need |
|---|---|---|---|
| Self Assessment (SA) | Online (Government Gateway): This is the fastest method. Log in to your Self Assessment account to update your personal details immediately. | Phone: Call the dedicated Self Assessment helpline. Helpline: 0300 200 3310 By Post: Send a signed letter to HMRC's central postal address detailing your move before your filing deadlines. | Unique Taxpayer Reference (UTR) and your National Insurance (NI) number. |
| Child Benefit | Online (Personal Tax Account): Use your PTA on GOV.UK for the quickest change, as this account is linked to your NI record. | Phone: Call the Child Benefit Office directly. Helpline: 0300 200 3100 By Post: Write a letter to the Child Benefit Office. | Your Child Benefit number or National Insurance (NI) number. |
How Do I Change My Address with HMRC for PAYE?
If you are employed and paid through PAYE, your Personal Tax Account update covers your HMRC records. Your employer’s payroll record is separate, so tell them your new address too. That way payslips and tax code letters reach you.
What If I’ve Moved Abroad?
If you’re now living outside the UK, you’ll need to contact HMRC’s international helpline:
+44 135 535 9022
They’ll guide you through the process depending on your tax situation. If you file a Self Assessment, the overseas line is +44 161 931 9070. Have your UTR ready.
When Should I Tell HMRC About My Address Change?
You should tell HMRC about your new address as soon as possible after you move.
Technically you need to wait until you have actually moved. But delaying too long can cause real problems. Especially if you miss a notification about a change to your tax code or an important deadline. Aim to get it sorted within a couple of weeks of unpacking those last few boxes
What Happens if I Forget to Update HMRC?
Possible outcomes:
- Lost tax refunds
- Missed deadlines leading to penalties
- Confusion with your tax code
- Problems claiming benefits
- Delays receiving important documents like P60 or UTR letters
It takes minutes now to avoid hours of sorting later.
Can I Contact HMRC Online to Change My Address?
Yes as discussed above, the quickest way to update your details with HMRC is through their online services. Using your Personal Tax Account on GOV.UK lets you securely submit your new address.
For an even simpler option the HMRC app offers the same features on your phone.
How Long Does It Take for HMRC Address Change?
Online and app updates usually show quickly in your account. Post can take weeks. If you need something urgently such as a refund or code correction, tell HMRC as soon as you move.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Changing Your Address with HM Revenue and Customs
Updating your address with HMRC might look simple at first glance. Mistakes do happen though. And they can lead to missed tax letters or penalties.
Here are the common pitfalls you need to avoid:
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Thinking One Update is Enough:
- The Mistake: Updating your personal tax details and assuming your business tax accounts or other government departments will update automatically.
- The Fix: Remember that your Personal Tax Account only links personal systems like PAYE, Self Assessment, and Child Benefit. If you run a business, you must update your business taxes (like VAT or Corporation Tax) and Companies House separately. Anyone receiving Universal Credit must also contact the DWP independently.
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Delaying the Notification:
- The Mistake: Waiting weeks or months before notifying HMRC of your new address.
- The Fix: Update your details as soon as you move. HMRC still holds you responsible for deadlines even if letters arrive at your previous address.
-
Forgetting Key Identification:
- The Mistake: Calling or writing without the information HMRC needs to verify your identity.
- The Fix: Have your National Insurance number ready. Self employed individuals should also keep their UTR on hand.
-
Not Using the Easiest Route:
- The Mistake: Sending a letter when there is a quicker, more secure route.
- The Fix: Most people can update their personal details through their online Personal Tax Account or the HMRC app. These services are faster. They keep everything neatly in one place.
How Accotax Can Help
If you’ve moved house or need help updating your HMRC details, accountants in London at Accotax can guide you through the process.
We also offer support with Self Assessment and other tax-related matters.
Get in touch with us if you need help managing your tax responsibilities.
The Bottom Line
Changing your address with HMRC is straightforward. You can update your details quickly through the online services or the HMRC app. The main thing is to make sure the correct records are updated.
If you have moved house, start with the official HMRC change-of-address service and check whether you need to update any other organisations separately.
Disclaimer: All the information provided in this article on “What are the Ways to Contact HMRC to Change the Address” including all the texts and graphics, is general in nature. It does not intend to disregard any of the professional advice.
