HMRC online services: sign in or set up an account
Get help with signing in to HMRC online services
You can get help with signing in to HMRC’s online services if you’re having problems.
Lost user ID or password
If you’ve forgotten the user ID or password you use to sign in, you can:
If you’re asked for an activation code
You may need to enter a 12-digit activation code the first time you use a HMRC service.
You’ll have been told if you need an activation code when you enrolled for the service. You’ll get your activation code by post within 10 days (21 days if you live abroad).
If you need a new activation code
If you cannot find your activation code or if your code has expired you can request a new one.
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Sign in to HMRC online services using your Government Gateway account.
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Select ‘request a new activation code’ or enrol for the service again.
You’ll get a new code within 28 days of enrolling.
If you’ve been locked out of your account
You will be locked out of your account if you enter the wrong user ID or password 5 times.
Your account will unlock after 2 hours. Helpdesk advisers cannot unlock your account.
Service availability and issues
Online services may be slow during busy times. Check if there are any problems with services.
Get help with other problems
You can ask HMRC’s digital assistant for help with using HMRC online services.
If the digital assistant cannot help, you can ask to be transferred to a webchat with an HMRC adviser, if they’re available.
You can also get help with: