HMRC has announced plans to drop the use of 0845 numbers and move to 0300 phone numbers for its helplines, a decision which should help many claimants reduce the cost of contacting the tax department.

The transition began on 16 April, starting with new numbers for the child benefit and guardian's allowance helplines. As result most callers will pay less, although call charges will depend on the tariff arrangements they have with their service provider, the device they use for the call, and the location from which they call.

The HMRC and gov.uk websites have details of the new numbers and a message will be added to the existing 0845 numbers. The 0845 numbers will still work for around 18 months.

All child benefit forms and letters will be updated to include the new phone numbers in due course. There is further information at HMRC.