Are you looking for accurate and updated information about the HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC) salary structure in the UK for 2025? You are not alone. Many people in the United Kingdom who are considering a career with HMRC or simply interested in civil service pay want to understand how much employees earn at different jobs and grades.
HMRC is one of the largest employers in the UK civil service. It is responsible for collecting taxes, administering benefits, enforcing tax laws, and supporting economic growth. With over 60,000 staff across the UK, HMRC offers a wide range of roles with competitive pay, benefits, and career progression opportunities.
This guide explains everything you need to know about the HMRC salary structure, jobs, and grades in 2025. Whether you are applying for your first civil service role, planning a career move, or just curious about HMRC salaries, this article provides all the details you need.
Why You Should Know the HMRC Salary Structure in the UK
Understanding the HMRC salary structure is important for several reasons:
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It helps you set realistic salary expectations before applying.
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It allows you to compare civil service pay to private sector jobs.
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It enables you to plan your career path and aim for promotions.
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It shows you which jobs and grades offer higher earnings.
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It helps you negotiate better when offered a job.
HMRC salaries are determined by UK civil service pay scales, but they also include location allowances, performance bonuses, and benefits.
How Much Do HMRC Employees Earn in 2025?
In 2025, the HMRC salary structure in the UK ranges from about £22,000 per year for entry-level administrative assistants to over £120,000 per year for senior leadership positions. Salaries depend on your job grade, experience, location, and responsibilities.
Pay also increases over time with annual reviews, promotions, and additional allowances for working in high-cost areas such as London.
HMRC Jobs and Grades in 2025
HMRC jobs are organised into a clear grade structure, similar to other UK civil service departments. Each grade has specific responsibilities, required skills, and salary bands.
Here are the main HMRC grades and jobs explained.
HMRC Salary by Grade in 2025
Administrative Assistant (AA)
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Salary: £22,000 – £24,000 per year
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Entry-level position, providing basic administrative support.
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Duties include data entry, handling correspondence, and assisting higher-grade staff.
Administrative Officer (AO)
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Salary: £23,000 – £26,500 per year
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A step above AA, performing more complex administrative tasks.
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Duties include managing files, responding to queries, and supporting operations.
Executive Officer (EO)
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Salary: £27,000 – £32,000 per year
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First management-level role.
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Responsibilities include supervising AAs and AOs, analysing data, and making decisions on routine cases.
Higher Executive Officer (HEO)
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Salary: £35,000 – £42,000 per year
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Mid-level management role, leading teams and handling complex cases.
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HEOs are responsible for planning, policy implementation, and reporting.
Senior Executive Officer (SEO)
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Salary: £43,000 – £50,000 per year
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Senior management role overseeing larger teams and projects.
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SEOs make significant decisions, manage budgets, and liaise with senior officials.
Grade 7
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Salary: £55,000 – £65,000 per year
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Senior leadership role with strategic responsibilities.
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Grade 7 managers oversee entire departments or specialised areas.
Grade 6
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Salary: £65,000 – £80,000 per year
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More senior than Grade 7, involved in shaping HMRC policies and major projects.
Senior Civil Service (SCS)
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Salary: £85,000 – £120,000+ per year
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Top-level leadership roles, including Directors and Chief Executives.
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Responsible for overall strategy, operations, and representing HMRC at the highest levels.
Summary Table: HMRC Salary Structure in the UK 2025
| Grade / Job Title | Salary Range (£) |
|---|---|
| Administrative Assistant (AA) | 22,000 – 24,000 |
| Administrative Officer (AO) | 23,000 – 26,500 |
| Executive Officer (EO) | 27,000 – 32,000 |
| Higher Executive Officer (HEO) | 35,000 – 42,000 |
| Senior Executive Officer (SEO) | 43,000 – 50,000 |
| Grade 7 | 55,000 – 65,000 |
| Grade 6 | 65,000 – 80,000 |
| Senior Civil Service (SCS) | 85,000 – 120,000+ |
Benefits and Allowances for HMRC Employees
In addition to salaries, HMRC employees enjoy a wide range of benefits:
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Pension Scheme: A generous public sector pension plan.
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Annual Leave: At least 25 days of paid holiday, increasing with service.
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Flexible Working: Opportunities for part-time, hybrid, or remote work.
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Training and Development: Funded courses and clear career progression.
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Childcare Vouchers & Family Support: Assistance for families.
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London Weighting & Location Allowance: Additional pay for working in high-cost areas.
These benefits make HMRC jobs attractive compared to many private-sector roles.
Factors That Affect HMRC Salaries in the UK
Several factors influence what you earn at HMRC:
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Grade: Higher grades come with higher pay.
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Experience: Longer service usually means better pay within your band.
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Performance Bonuses: Based on individual and team achievements.
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Location: Roles in London and the South East may include extra allowances.
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Specialist Roles: Some technical or high-demand roles offer premium pay.
Career Progression at HMRC
One of the main attractions of working at HMRC is the potential for career advancement. You can move up through the grades by:
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Gaining experience in your current role.
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Completing training and qualifications.
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Applying for internal promotions.
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Moving into specialist or management positions.
This clear structure allows employees to set long-term career goals.
Frequently Asked Questions About HMRC Salary Structure in the UK 2025
What is the starting salary at HMRC?
Entry-level Administrative Assistants earn about £22,000 per year, increasing with experience and promotion.
How much does an Executive Officer at HMRC earn?
An EO at HMRC earns between £27,000 and £32,000 annually, depending on experience and location.
Do HMRC employees in London earn more?
Yes. Staff in London and some areas in the South East receive additional allowances to cover the higher cost of living.
Are there opportunities to earn bonuses at HMRC?
Yes. Performance bonuses and team-based rewards are sometimes available for meeting or exceeding targets.
What is the highest-paid role at HMRC?
Senior Civil Service positions, such as Directors, can earn over £120,000 annually.
How to Increase Your Salary at HMRC
If you want to earn more at HMRC, here are some practical steps:
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Seek promotions to higher grades.
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Move into specialist or technical roles.
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Apply for positions in London or other high-allowance areas.
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Build your skills through training and professional development.
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Take on additional responsibilities or projects.
Advantages of Working at HMRC
Here are some key reasons to consider a career at HMRC:
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Competitive pay with steady progression.
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Excellent pension and benefits package.
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Job security in the public sector.
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Opportunities to work on meaningful national projects.
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Work-life balance with flexible working options.
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Support for training, development, and career advancement.
Final Thoughts: HMRC Salary Structure in the UK 2025 — Jobs & Grades
The HMRC salary structure in the UK 2025 shows that careers in the civil service can be both financially rewarding and professionally satisfying. Salaries start at around £22,000 for entry-level roles and can exceed £120,000 for senior leadership positions.
With clear job grades, competitive benefits, and opportunities for promotion, HMRC provides a stable and attractive career path for thousands of employees across the United Kingdom. Whether you are just starting your career or looking for a step up, HMRC offers a variety of roles and salaries to suit your goals.
By understanding the pay structure, benefits, and career progression at HMRC, you can make informed decisions and plan your future in public service.