UK’s plan to transform the tax and customs system.
HMRC’s Transformation Roadmap sets out its long-term vision to become a digital-first tax and customs authority by 2030. The plan focuses on modernising systems, improving customer experience, and reducing the tax gap, while also strengthening trust and engagement with taxpayers and stakeholders. It includes extensive adoption of Artificial Intelligence across the tax administrative process.
For VAT, this builds on Making Tax Digital for VAT, and such measures as split payments.
HMRC is exploring upstream interventions into VAT, helping customers submit accurate returns through real time risking which feeds nudges and prompts during the submission process. See our UK VAT Guide.
Digital-First by 2030
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90% of customer interactions to be fully digital or automated
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Simple queries handled automatically; complex cases addressed by trained advisers
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Digital services to include enquiry tracking, document sharing, and personalised guidance
Smarter Compliance & Enforcement
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Use of third-party data to ensure correct tax payments
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Automation of routine tasks to free up resources for serious tax compliance cases
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Focus on high-impact enforcement using advanced technology and data analytics
Customer-Centric Approach
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Advisers with full customer visibility: activity, history, and interactions
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Improved support for taxpayers and agents through intuitive digital tools
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Simplified tax processes and proactive education to reduce non-compliance
Modern, Resilient Technology
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Shift to cloud-based systems for flexibility and scalability
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Integration with GOV.UK One Login to streamline digital access
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Enhanced cybersecurity to defend against evolving threats
Structural Integration
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Valuation Office Agency (VOA) fully merged into HMRC
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Supporting government reforms to business rates and broader tax system modernisation
Strong Partnerships & Collaboration
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Close cooperation with intermediaries like tax advisers and software providers
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Provide guidance and tools to support professional service delivery
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Maintain robust professional standards across the ecosystem
HMRC recognises the importance of collaborating closely with intermediaries, including tax advisers and software providers, ensuring they have the tools and guidance needed to support clients effectively while upholding high professional standards.
The roadmap is ambitious, but HMRC believes it has the investment, direction, and commitment required to deliver meaningful transformation across the UK’s tax and customs administration.
