The new service was launched on 19 January and HMRC will use the text service to support mobile phone users. The text messages will point people towards information on gov.uk website which can help with their enquiry.

The text message response is triggered after a taxpayer has completed the automated options list and have asked for basic information widely available on the HMRC website.

HMRC said: ‘We are trialling a new SMS service that will help customers quickly and easily get the information they’re looking for online. The trial comes after improvements to information and access to our digital services and builds on our digital and channel shift ambitions.

‘From 19 January SMSs will be sent to some customers who call our helplines from a mobile phone asking for help with a routine matter that would be better resolved if they used our digital services.