HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) has launched a new online Interactive Compliance Guidance tool, designed to make it easier for businesses and individuals to understand and navigate tax compliance checks. Built with accessibility and usability in mind, the free tool is now live on GOV.UK.
The tool forms part of the UK government’s broader plan to reduce administrative friction for users interacting with HMRC. The guidance is aimed particularly at those who may not have professional representation and need support understanding what a compliance check involves and how to respond effectively.
Hosted centrally on GOV.UK, the tool consolidates a range of existing guidance, explanatory videos, and support options into a single, interactive experience. Users are guided through key topics such as:
Designed with input from multiple stakeholders, including customer experience groups and charities, the tool uses a clear Q&A format to support a wide range of user needs.
Joanne Walker, Technical Officer at the Low Incomes Tax Reform Group (LITRG) and a member of HMRC’s Customer Experience Advisory Group, welcomed the tool: “When unrepresented customers have a tax compliance problem, it can be difficult for them to find the help they need. This new interactive tool from HMRC makes compliance guidance readily accessible in one place. The links to extra support will be especially valuable for the most vulnerable customers.”
The launch follows other recent HMRC digital initiatives, such as the VAT Registration Estimator, as the department continues to invest in digital self-service solutions. These tools aim to reduce pressure on traditional contact channels and enhance user experience.
Penny Ciniewicz, HMRC’s Director General for Customer Compliance, highlighted the department’s commitment to improving user support: “We know that compliance checks can be daunting, and we are always looking for ways to improve our support for customers. This tool is another step in our efforts to make dealing with HMRC easier and more transparent.”
The tool is free to use, collects no user data, and does not trigger any tax registrations. Sessions automatically time out after 15 minutes of inactivity to protect users’ privacy.
To explore the tool, search for “Compliance Checks” on the HMRC tools and calculators page.