HMRC has explained the rules around tax codes and pointed to a helpline that some people need to call. The group provided an update after a question from a taxpayer. The person said the tax code on their pay slip was BR while « on your system » it was showing as 1112LX.
They asked the authority what could be the reason for the two different codes. HMRC suggested why this may have happened, saying: « It looks like your employer hasn’t received the code we’ve sent. »
It’s worth checking you are on the right tax code if you are on ‘BR’ as this means all of your income is being taxed at the basic rate of 20 percent of income tax.
There is a standard personal allowance that means you can earn up to £12,570 a year without paying income tax, so it’s worth making sure the allowance is being applied to your income if you are entitled to it.
HMRC shared some further advice for the taxpayer. The group said: « You’ll need to contact our helpline who can resend it [the tax code]. »
The authority shared a link to the Government website with information about how to get in touch about income tax queries. The number to call HMRC is 0300 200 3300, with lines open Monday to Friday from 8am to 8pm or on Saturdays from 8am to 4pm.
You can get help over the phone with issues such as tax overpayments or underpayments, or to do with a P800 tax calculation. Th helpline can also assist if you are having identification or verifications problems relating to registering for a personal tax account.
Taxpayers are encouraged to make sure their details with HMRC are all up to date, to make sure you are on the right tax code. Guidance on the Government website explains: « In most cases, HMRC will automatically update your tax code when your income changes.
« They’ll usually get this information from your employer. If HMRC has the wrong information about your income, you may be given an incorrect tax code. »
You can check your tax code and personal allowance for the current tax year using a tool on the Government website.
