If you’ve had a text or email saying you’re due a tax refund, be careful.
Fraudsters are once again pretending to be HMRC to trick people into handing over bank details and personal information.
These scams tend to spike around tax deadlines, when people are more likely to expect genuine contact from HMRC.
But remember: HMRC will never ask you to click a link in a text or email to claim a refund.
How the HMRC tax refund scam works
Criminals send messages claiming you’re owed a rebate and urge you to “click a link” or “fill in a form” to claim it.
These links take you to a fake HMRC website where you’ll be asked for your details.
Once entered, scammers can empty bank accounts or commit identity fraud.
The messages can look convincing. The sender’s name might display as “HMRC”, and the website could use official logos.
But they’re designed to trick you.
How to spot a scam
- HMRC will never send tax refund notifications by text, WhatsApp, or email.
- Real refunds are only issued through your official HMRC account or by cheque.
- Watch for spelling mistakes, unusual web addresses, or urgent wording like “last chance”.
- Any message asking for your bank details is fake.
What to do if you receive one
- Don’t click links or open attachments.
- Report it: forward scam texts to 60599 and emails to [email protected].
- Delete it after reporting.
- Check your account directly by signing in at GOV.UK.
What if you already clicked?
Act quickly:
- Call your bank immediately and explain what happened. They can monitor or block suspicious transactions.
- Change any passwords linked to your email or bank accounts.
- Report it to Action Fraud (0300 123 2040) or Police Scotland if you’re in Scotland.
Why scammers use HMRC
The promise of a tax refund is an easy lure. With the cost of living still biting, many people would welcome “free money” from the tax office.
They also know that most of us take anything from HMRC seriously so are more likely to respond.
Which is why these cons keep circulating.
Final word
HMRC will never send unexpected texts or emails about tax refunds.
If you get a message like this, ignore the link and go directly to your official tax account to check. Don’t let fraudsters cash in on your details.
HMRC tax refund scam FAQs
1. Does HMRC ever text people?
Yes, but only for reminders or updates on forms you’ve already submitted. They will never contact you about refunds by text.
2. How can I check if a refund is real?
Log in to your Government Gateway account at GOV.UK. If a refund is due, it will appear there.
3. What happens if I miss a real refund?
HMRC will usually adjust your tax code or send a cheque. There’s no rush to “claim” it by link.
4. Can I get my money back if I was scammed?
Your bank may refund you under the Authorised Push Payment Scam Code, but it depends on the case. Report it quickly for the best chance.
5. Why are these scams so common?
Because they work. Criminals exploit financial stress and use convincing branding to catch people off guard.
