Why You Should Never Share Your Government Gateway Login

What is the Government Gateway?

Your Government Gateway account is the digital key to your tax world. It holds sensitive personal and financial data, and it’s your direct line to HMRC. So when someone asks for your login details—even your accountant—it’s worth pausing and asking: is this safe, or even necessary?

Spoiler alert: it’s not. Let’s break down why.

Why You Shouldn’t Share Your Login Details

HMRC is crystal clear: never share your Government Gateway credentials with anyone, including your accountant. Here’s why:

• Security risk: Your login gives full access to your tax records, refunds, and personal data. Sharing it is like handing over your online banking password.

• Fraud exposure: Criminals have used stolen credentials to file bogus tax returns and claim refunds in others’ names.

• You’re still liable: If someone misuses your account—even with good intentions—you’re legally responsible for the consequences.

• HMRC may suspend your account: Sharing credentials violates HMRC’s terms and can trigger account suspension or investigation.

Think of it like your passport: it’s yours alone.

How Should Your Accountant Access Your Account?

Instead of sharing your login, you can authorise your accountant properly through HMRC’s secure agent system. This gives them access to the specific tax services they need—without compromising your account.

Here’s how it works:

• Form 64-8: A paper form that authorises your accountant to speak to HMRC on your behalf.

• Online authorisation: HMRC sends a code to your registered address. You pass it to your accountant to complete the setup.

• Digital handshake: For services like Making Tax Digital, you click a secure link to grant access.

Once authorised, your accountant can:

• Submit returns

• View relevant tax data

• Communicate with HMRC directly

And you stay in control.

🧠 Final Thoughts

Trust is key in any professional relationship—but so is protecting your identity and staying compliant. At Accounted 4 Tax Ltd, we never ask for your Government Gateway login. Instead, we guide you through proper authorisation so we can support you securely and professionally.

Need help setting up agent access or unsure if your current accountant is authorised?

Let’s chat—we’re here to empower, not overstep.

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