Guidance on identifying genuine HMRC email communications

HMRC has published guidance detailing the types of genuine email communications that tax agents and businesses may receive. The page categorises various official alerts ranging from anti-money laundering supervision and help and support initiatives to specific sector newsletters and administrative notifications. Crucially, the guidance provides details regarding mandatory tax adviser registration for agent services accounts, noting specific timeframes for these communications.

What it means for a practice

• Use this list to verify the legitimacy of emails received by your firm to protect against phishing attempts, as genuine HMRC correspondence typically links to GOV.UK rather than requesting personal or financial data directly.
• Monitor communications regarding anti-money laundering supervision, as failure to address these HMRC alerts can impact your status as a registered tax agent.
• Be aware of the specific mandatory tax adviser registration window for agent services accounts to ensure your practice remains compliant with HMRC requirements.