HMRC is rolling out a significant update on Monday, May 18, 2026, introducing a new digital registration system for tax advisers. This initiative is designed to help organisations determine whether they need to register under the updated tax adviser rules.
The new online tool guides users through a series of questions to assess their registration requirements. According to HMRC, existing accounts will be automatically transferred to this system. As part of the process, HMRC will verify that advisers meet the required standards and will contact users via their agent services account if additional information is needed.
This mandatory registration aims to safeguard consumers and elevate the quality of tax advice. The registration process will be phased in between May 18, 2026, and March 31, 2027, and is offered free of charge. HMRC provides detailed step-by-step guidance on GOV.UK to help advisers navigate the changes.
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Mark Evans, president of the Law Society, has voiced concerns, describing the new requirements as “an additional and unnecessary administrative burden.” He released a Q&A to address how firms, particularly conveyancers, can prepare and clarify outstanding queries about the requirements.
The Modernising and Mandating Tax Adviser Registration (MMTAR) scheme, introduced in the 2025 government budget, aims to raise standards in tax advice and protect taxpayers. A 2024 consultation showed strong support for the registration scheme, highlighting benefits such as easier identification of advisers, consistent professional standards, and fairer practices.
Robert Jones, HMRC’s Director for Intermediaries, encourages tax advisers to familiarize themselves with the guidance promptly to understand their registration timelines and requirements. He emphasized that these measures are part of HMRC’s efforts to improve market fairness, support economic growth, and reduce the tax gap.
By enforcing these new registration standards, HMRC hopes to ensure taxpayers receive dependable advice and uphold the integrity of the tax advice profession.