HMRC down leaving furious customers unable to access tax accounts
HUNDREDS of people are struggling to log into their HMRC accounts to renew their tax credits before the deadline.
Over 220 people are having issues getting onto the system, with a surge of complaints reported from 5am this morning, according to Downdetector.
Around 55% said they cannot access the website, 29% said they are having trouble with the app, and 15% are struggling to login.
HMRC‘s customer support Twitter account confirmed there were issues.
It tweeted in reply to one customer: “I’m sorry but we’re experiencing technical issues with a number of online services and are working to restore them as soon as possible.”
It will come as a concern for the thousands of people claiming tax credits who are rushing to renew their claim before the deadline.
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Households have just a matter of weeks to renew their claim by July 31 – or they could risk seeing their payments stop completely.
Furious customers took to Twitter to complain about the website crash.
One tweeted: “@HMRCcustomers how long is this service down for? I’m trying to access my tax credits.”
Another raged: “When is the issue with PAYE and Tax Credit being unable to accessed either online or on the App going to be fixed?!?!”
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One customer complained: “Why cant I use the Manage my tax credits section of the HMRC website.”
HMRC was approached for comment.
What to do if you’re having problems accessing your account
If you can’t access your account because of the technical issues, there are a number of ways you can ask HMRC for help.
HMRC is replying to customers who are tweeting about their problems, so it might be an idea to get in touch with them via their social media pages.
Start your tweet with @HMRCcustomers between 8am to 8pm, Monday to Saturday.
You can also phone up the HMRC for help on 0345 300 3900, and lines are open from 8am to 6pm, Monday to Friday.
Phone lines are usually less busy Tuesday to Thursday from 2pm to 4pm.
How else can I renew my tax credits
If you’re struggling to renew your tax credits online because of the crash, then there are other ways of refreshing your claim.
HMRC has sent renewal packs out on information on how to renew.
Those that need to renew will have a letter with a red line on it and the words “reply now”.
People that need to check their details will receive a letter from HMRC with a black line and the words “reply now” on it.
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Fill in the forms in your renewal pack, and send it to: Tax Credit Office, HM Revenue and Customs, BX9 1LR.
Or, you can renew over the phone by calling HMRC on 0345 300 3900.