fidobsa

I just wondered if any members have had problems doing their online tax returns this time? They have introduced an extra security requirement since last year. They send a text message with a code which you have to enter as part of the log on procedure. I tried to do my return a couple of weeks ago but I was at my Croatia place where there is rarely a mobile phone signal.

Today I tried again, this time at my house in Hungary. I entered my Hungarian mobile phone number but no text message was received. I tried again but nothing. My cottage in Scotland never has a signal so I would be no better off if doing it back in UK.

AmanSood

if you are still having problems, one option is to maybe use a friend's telephone number and ask them to let you know the code when you get it but you would of course need to trust them!

fidobsa

Thanks Aman, I have sent you a PM.

Peter_in_Hungary

I had a problem with an sms with a code sent by my bank to confirm payment to a new account. After 6 attempts to receive the sms (new sms in each case) I phoned the bank and they confirmed that 6 sms(es) were sent but told me that it was not a 'standard sms' and some phones had problems and that I should talk to my phone service provider. I completed the transaction via telephone. I complained to the phone co. and they said "Oh yes, you need a new sim card" and gave me one.

I haven't had the occasion to test the fix yet!!!!

fidobsa

It looks like I have been doing it wrong for the last few years as people in my circumstances are supposed to use commercial software for their tax returns. I did this and there was no requirement for text messages.

scrubbedexpat142

Yes, living outside the UK you are supposed to use external software but if you need to access your HMRC account then you still need the SMS code.

fidobsa

The annoying thing is it looks like you have to buy new software each year.

scrubbedexpat142

Yes, as a non UK resident you have to pay for the privilege of paying UK taxes!

jetsam1

Umm..... What is this? Never heard of needing 3rd party software before? HMRC never mentioned anything?

scrubbedexpat142

When logging in to their website back in January I noticed a statement that if you live outside the UK you cannot use HMRC software, why? No idea! They then offered a list of providers.

jetsam1

Fortunately my tax return is very simple!

mrken30

Some banks will use SMS short codes and a lot of the MVNOs have problems with receiving these type of messages

mrken30

Does anyone know why they did this?

scrubbedexpat142

So was mine! In fact this year (unlike the previous) I only owed £2 but it cost me £12,50 to find out!

scrubbedexpat142

Because they can, because we're expats!