HMRC to Launch Digital-First Communication for 37 Million Taxpayers in 2026
# HMRC Set to Transform Communication with Major 2026 Update Impacting 37 Million Taxpayers
From April 2026, HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) will shift towards a digital-first communication model that will significantly reduce the number of postal letters sent to taxpayers. This change will affect approximately 37 million individuals in the UK. Instead of relying heavily on traditional mail, notifications, reminders, and updates will be delivered through the HMRC app and online services.
The transition is part of HMRC's broader initiative to modernise tax communications, aimed at enhancing efficiency and accessibility. A spokesperson for HMRC stated, “Customers will be notified promptly when new correspondence is available in their digital tax account, helping them stay informed and take timely action. It reduces the risk of missing important updates, simplifies record-keeping, and allows customers to manage their tax affairs with greater confidence and control.”
While the move is expected to benefit many, HMRC has clarified that this will not eliminate paper correspondence entirely. “From April 2026, we're moving towards digital by default. Notifications, reminders, and updates will start coming through the HMRC app and online services instead of post. Not all letters will change at once, and paper options will still be available for those who need them,” the spokesperson explained in a post on X.
This update is a key part of HMRC's strategy to streamline tax operations and engage more effectively with taxpayers in a rapidly evolving digital landscape. The gradual implementation of these changes will be closely monitored to ensure that all taxpayers can adapt to the new system with minimal disruption.
This report is for informational purposes only and is not financial advice.