Government Gateway: Setting Up Your Account

How to Set Up Your Government Gateway Account

Government Gateway is the login system used by HMRC’s online services. Think of it as your “key” to access everything tax-related online — from filing returns to checking your tax code.^[1]

You’ll get a 12-character User ID (a mix of numbers and letters) when you create your account. Keep this safe alongside your password.

Creating an Account

Setting up is free and takes about 10 minutes:^[1]

Go to gov.uk/log-in-register-hmrc-online-services
Click “Create sign in details”
Enter your email address and create a password
You’ll receive a User ID — write this down immediately
Verify your identity (you’ll need your National Insurance number, a recent payslip or P60, and/or a valid UK passport)
Set up two-factor authentication

Two-Factor Authentication

HMRC requires a second verification step every time you log in. You can choose:^[1]

Text message — a code sent to your mobile phone
Voice call — an automated call that reads out a code
Authenticator app — use an app like Google Authenticator or Microsoft Authenticator

What You Can Do With It

Once set up, your Government Gateway account gives you access to:^[2]

File Self Assessment tax returns online
View your tax code and check it’s correct
Check payments you’ve made and any amounts owed
Claim tax refunds
View your National Insurance record
Manage Marriage Allowance
Link MTD-compatible software like GoFile for quarterly updates^[4]

GoFile connects via Government Gateway. When you sign up for MTD with GoFile, you’ll authorise the connection through your Government Gateway account. Register here.

Government Gateway for Agents

If you’re an accountant or tax agent, you need a separate Agent Services Account rather than a personal Government Gateway account. This lets you manage multiple clients and submit returns on their behalf.^[4]

Common Problems

Forgotten User ID — use the “Recover your User ID” option on the sign-in page, or check old emails for your registration confirmation
Forgotten password — reset it online using your User ID and email address
Locked account — after too many failed attempts, wait 2 hours or call the HMRC online services helpdesk
Two-factor not working — contact HMRC to reset your access factor

Tip: Store your User ID in a password manager. The 12-character format is easy to forget, and losing it means you’ll need to go through the recovery process.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a Government Gateway account?

Government Gateway is HMRC’s login system for all online tax services. It gives you a 12-character User ID that you use alongside a password and two-factor authentication to access filing, payments, and your tax records.

How do I create a Government Gateway account?

Go to gov.uk, click “Create sign in details”, enter your email and create a password. You will receive a User ID and must verify your identity using your National Insurance number, a recent payslip or P60, and/or a valid UK passport.

What can I do with Government Gateway?

You can file Self Assessment returns, view your tax code, check payments owed, claim tax refunds, view your National Insurance record, manage Marriage Allowance, and link MTD-compatible software for quarterly updates.

I have forgotten my Government Gateway User ID. How do I recover it?

Use the “Recover your User ID” option on the sign-in page, or check old emails for your registration confirmation. If your account is locked after too many failed attempts, wait 2 hours or call the HMRC online services helpdesk.

Sources

HMRC online services: sign in or set up an account — GOV.UK
Personal tax account: sign in or set up — GOV.UK
Self Assessment tax returns — GOV.UK
Sign up for Making Tax Digital for Income Tax — GOV.UK
HMRC app — GOV.UK

Setting Up Your Government Gateway Account