The HMRC app gives instant access to crucial information such as National Insurance numbers, tax codes and previous employer details – all essential when applying for seasonal work
Young people have been urged to download a free app from HM Revenue and Customs to avoid a summer job meltdown. More than 1.2 million under-25s have already downloaded the HMRC app, which gives instant access to crucial information such as National Insurance numbers, tax codes and previous employer details — all essential when applying for seasonal work.
The call comes as thousands of school leavers, college students and university graduates look to earn extra cash after finishing their exams. Between May and August last year, an average of 40,000 additional young people entered employment each month compared to the rest of the year.
With work in hospitality, retail, leisure and even fruit picking expected to spike again this summer, officials say the app helps young jobseekers get ahead of the pack.
Myrtle Lloyd, HMRC’s Chief Customer Officer, said: “Earning extra cash is important when young people have down time from studying. Downloading the HMRC app is a simple way to ensure they can apply for their job quickly and get on with earning extra cash.”
The app provides immediate access to employment history, tax details, and the vital National Insurance number — the most commonly misplaced bit of information by young people starting work. More than 146,000 people contacted the National Insurance helpline in the year to April saying they’d lost or forgotten it.
Ms Lloyd said: “It’s quicker and easier for individuals to access their NI number via the HMRC app. They can download it to keep it safely in their phone’s digital wallet to use whenever it’s needed.”
Figures show nearly 90,000 under-25s used the app last year to download their NI number directly. The tax authority is also warning young people to keep their NI number secure and only share it with trusted parties, such as an employer, to reduce the risk of identity fraud.
In addition, those starting jobs are being advised to check their payslips regularly to ensure they are being paid in line with National Minimum Wage laws. Anyone who believes they are being short-changed can report concerns to HMRC or the workplace mediator ACAS.
The HMRC app has proven popular with young workers, boasting a 4.8-star rating on the Apple App Store and 4.6 on Google Play.
Once registered, users can log in securely using facial recognition, a fingerprint, or a six-digit PIN. Those who don’t yet have a Government Gateway ID may need to verify their identity using a passport or driving licence.
The current National Minimum Wage hourly rates (as of April 1, 2025) are:
Age 21 and over (National Living Wage): £12.21
Age 18 to 20: £10.00
Under 18: £7.55
More information and links to download the app can be found here.