Close up of hands using a laptop with virtual digital graphics projected over, the main one being a closed padlock

HMRC to change online identity verification for some Government Gateway users

8 October, 2026

HMRC is making a change to one of the online identity verification journeys.  The change is planned to take place by 9 October 2026.

This change removes the option for taxpayers to answer knowledge-based questions as part of an ID verification journey because these checks no longer provide the level of assurance required. The change has been implemented to help strengthen the security of the online services and better protect taxpayers' information. 

The change only affects some existing Government Gateway users at the point they are asked to prove their identity before accessing an HMRC service. It does not affect Agents, GOV.UK One Login users or those using the separate password reset and MFA recovery journey. 

For a short period of time, affected users who select knowledge-based questions on GOV.UK will see a ‘service unavailable’ message before the options are removed completely a few days later.

HMRC has stated that taxpayers who need to verify their identity will continue to have alternative options. They can:

 

  • use biometric verification through the GOV.UK ID Check app
  • create a GOV.UK One Login account, which offers additional ways to prove their identity including the in-person service at a Post Office
  • contact HMRC for support if they are unable to use the available online routes.