Thousands of people entering the workforce have been urged to take a simple step to avoid tax problems from day one. HMRC has issued an "essential" alert encouraging university leavers to download its free app, which helps manage everything from National Insurance numbers to checking tax payments.
In a social media post aimed at students planning life after university, the tax authority said: "Planning for life after uni? Start right with the HMRC app. From finding your National Insurance number to checking your employment history, it's free, easy, and essential for your next step."
What the app offers
The app allows users to instantly view their National Insurance number, check their tax code, monitor income, see tax deductions, and review employment history over five years. It also helps estimate take-home pay after Income Tax and National Insurance deductions before the first payslip.
As careers develop, the app can track Child Benefit, check State Pension forecasts, view gaps in National Insurance contributions, and manage Self Assessment if users become self-employed or have additional income.
Additional features
Other functions include claiming tax refunds, making Self Assessment payments, updating personal details like address changes, and tracking correspondence with HMRC. Users can store their National Insurance number in a digital wallet for easy access when changing jobs.
After downloading, users sign in with an existing HMRC online account or create one, then access the app using a six-digit PIN, fingerprint, or facial recognition. The reminder comes as thousands of graduates prepare to start graduate schemes, apprenticeships, and permanent roles.
Consumer experts advise first-time workers to check their tax code after receiving their first payslip, as incorrect codes can lead to overpayment or unexpected bills. Anyone who believes they have overpaid tax can use the HMRC app to check for a refund and claim it directly.
