HM Revenue & Customs

I cannot activate my service as my Activation Code is lost/has expired?

HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) advise that you print off this page for reference purposes.

Lost Activation Code

You have your User ID and password but have lost your Activation Code. If this is within 28 days of enrolling for a HMRC online service, you'll be able to get a new one online by following these steps:

Do not request a replacement Activation Code until 7 days after you complete your enrolment.

The Government Gateway will issue a new Activation Code within 2 days of your request.

It can take up to 5 days for you to receive the Activation Code letter or up to 21 days if you live abroad.

You must activate the service within 28 days of the date shown on the letter you receive. If you don’t, the code will expire and you’ll have to request a new one.

Expired Activation Code

If the 28 day activation period has passed and you've not yet activated your service, you'll need to request a new code. Follow the steps below:

The Government Gateway will issue a new Activation Code within 2 days of your request.

It can take up to 5 days for you to receive the Activation Code letter or up to 21 days if you live abroad.

You must activate the service within 28 days of the date shown on the letter you receive. If you don’t, the code will expire and you’ll have to request a new one.