Shamini 
(C): Twitter
With summer fast approaching, HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) are encouraging young people finishing school, college or university to download the HMRC app to support them as they move into temporary work. Over 1.2 million users aged 25 and under have already downloaded the app, so if you’re looking for work, the app could be beneficial.
With so many hospitality, leisure, retail and agriculture roles opening up, the app is supporting all young applicants to gain immediate access to their important documentation, such as:
- National Insurance (NI) number
- Tax code
- Work history
- Pay details
Having access to this information means job applications can occur faster and employers can deduct the correct tax levels, thus enabling workers to retain more of their income.
Why Is the HMRC App Crucial for Young Jobseekers?
Across the period from May to August 2024, 40,000 additional young people were employed on average each month than at other times. For many, their NI number was essential. Over 146,000 people last year had to contact HMRC’s helpline to retrieve their forgotten NI details. Instead, it allows the app to:
- NI number downloads straight to a digital wallet.
- It’s easy to share with verified employers only (to mitigate ID fraud).
- You can access it using facial recognition, a fingerprint or a 6-digit PIN.
The app is also well rated – 4.8 stars on the App Store and 4.6 stars on Google Play.
Wage Compliance and Security Tips
Young workers should regularly check payslips to make sure they receive at least the national minimum wage, which will rise in April 2025:
GBP 12.21 (aged 21+), GBP 10.00 (aged 18-20), GBP 7.55 (aged under 18)
If they are underpaid, they will need to report to HMRC or ACAS.
New users can register with photo ID, UK passport or driving licence, but the users must never share their Government Gateway Login to prevent fraud.
The HMRC app is not just a tool; it is an essential job-readiness measure for a successful summer.
