With six months until HMRC’s new mandatory tax adviser register opens, the profession is still waiting for key details – including which advisers will be exempt. Budget documents confirmed that the register will go live in May 2026, supported by a three-month transition period for online sign-up through a new portal. Penalties will be applied to those who fail to register.

The register is expected to cover anyone who deals with HMRC on behalf of clients or clients themselves. This extends beyond traditional tax advisers and accountants to include conveyancers submitting stamp duty land tax (SDLT) returns and legal firms offering tax-related advice. Although draft legislation has not been published, HMRC has already confirmed that conveyancers fall within the scope.

So far, only pension administration professionals have been told they will be exempt. The Society of Pension Professionals announced in November that HMRC had accepted its argument that administrators are not tax advisers and are already subject to separate regulation.

HMRC has also warned that some taxpayers may be affected if their advisers are unable to meet the new registration requirements or are sanctioned. In those cases, clients will need to appoint a registered adviser.

Registration will be available through a digital portal, with a non-digital option for those unable to use online services. HMRC is investing £36m in developing the system, now scheduled for a May 2026 launch, one month later than first planned.

A penalty regime will apply to advisers who fail to register or breach minimum standards. HMRC states that the changes will enhance its ability to monitor and exclude advisers who do not meet its existing standards for agents. Legislation will appear in the Finance Bill 2025/26.

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