Reduced charges for calling HMRC
Increasingly, HMRC has been moving away from 0845 numbers to 03 numbers. 03 numbers are non-geographic but are usually charged at the same rates as 01 and 02 numbers and are free with some telephone packages.
All HMRC helplines now have 03 numbers, and the majority of calls are made using those numbers. To help create a smooth transition to the new 03 numbers, and minimise inconvenience for customers, HMRC continued to use their 0845 numbers.
Since 11 December 2014 all 0845 numbers have been taken out of service. However, callers will still hear a recorded message telling them that calls to HMRC are no longer dealt with on that number. They will be given the new 03 number, and the call will then terminate. Callers will have to redial using the correct 03 number to contact the relevant department.