HM Revenue and Customs
HM Revenue and Customs' Tax Credits department assists with queries related to personal tax credits, including eligibility, claims, payments, and changes in circumstances. The helpline is available Monday to Friday from 08:00 to 18:00, and Saturday from 09:00 to 13:00. Common reasons for calling include reporting changes in income or household circumstances, and renewing tax credits. During renewal periods, call volumes are higher, leading to longer wait times. It is advisable to call during off-peak hours for a quicker response. Ensure you have your National Insurance number and relevant personal details ready before calling.
Updated 15 Dec 2025
Expected outcomes
- Check tax credit eligibility
- Report income changes
- Renew tax credits
- Update personal details
- Confirm payment schedules
Call preparation
Assemble everything before you dial. These requirements are verified by our call analysts and updated as organizations change their scripts.
- National Insurance number
- Tax credit reference number
- Personal details
- Income details
- Renewal reference
- Household change details
Known issues
Callers often experience long wait times, especially during peak hours and tax credit renewal periods. To mitigate this, try calling during off-peak hours or use online services if possible. Additionally, some callers report difficulty reaching the correct department. To avoid this, clearly state the nature of your enquiry and request the Tax Credits department directly. Being prepared with all necessary information, such as your National Insurance number and relevant details, can help streamline the process and reduce the likelihood of being transferred multiple times.
