A worker was confused as they were seemingly on two different tax codes
HMRC has provided guidance on how to ensure you’re on the correct tax code. Your tax code determines the level of tax you pay and on what portion of your income. The group was asked to clarify the rules in a query from a taxpayer who feared they were on an incorrect code.
The person told the revenue service via social media that while their primary employment was on code 214L, their secondary job used code 769T. HMRC responded to clarify the meaning behind both codes.
The department explained: “There’s £7,690 allowance on the second job, and £2,140 on the main job. If that doesn’t reflect the likely earnings of the two jobs, update the estimated incomes for both online.”
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The person went on to explain that this differed from their previous tax arrangements, where their primary role had been allocated a larger allowance. The person also said some of their work colleagues were seemingly being taxed differently.
Every taxpayer receives a standard personal allowance, permitting earnings of up to £12,570 each tax year without incurring income tax. HMRC replied again to further set out the rules.
The group said: “Tax codes are based on the estimated income, and it depends on what else we have for you. Without access to others income tax records, there’s no way to know why their tax is different.”
The person said they would struggle to know their estimated earnings as their shift patterns vary a lot. HMRC told them in response: “You’ll still have a better idea than we do.”
HMRC was asked for further advice about what to do if you think you are on the wrong tax code. The group said it couldn’t comment on individual cases, citing confidentiality regulations.
The department pointed taxpayers to guidance on the gov.uk website regarding tax codes. The advice page reads: “In most cases, HMRC will automatically update your tax code when your income changes.
“They’ll usually get this information from your employer. If HMRC has the wrong information about your income, you may be given an incorrect tax code. To correct your tax code, make sure HMRC has up-to-date details about your income.”
You can check your tax code and your personal allowance for the current tax year, which runs from April 6, 2025 to April 5, 2026, using a tool on the Government website.
