Call to the UK

[Shahmatt]

I need to make a call to the HMRC uk due to a business tax issue. Unfortunately they don't take emails. I have a Vivifi and Simba connection, but neither have a cheap IDD option, and I hear they keep you holding for some time.

In the olden days I used to use Skype or Google Hangouts for this type of thing. But I think they are no more. Can anyone recommend me a solution for this? Thanks in advance for any help.

 

[Tedicious]

I need to make a call to the HMRC uk due to a business tax issue. Unfortunately they don't take emails. I have a Vivifi and Simba connection, but neither have a cheap IDD option, and I hear they keep you holding for some time.

In the olden days I used to use Skype or Google Hangouts for this type of thing. But I think they are no more. Can anyone recommend me a solution for this? Thanks in advance for any help.

Chatgpt?

 

[Shahmatt]

Chatgpt?

Good idea. This is the response:


Yes — you're absolutely right that calling HMRC from outside the UK can be costly, especially if you're on hold for a while. Since Skype and Google Hangouts (now merged into Google Meet/Chat) no longer offer affordable direct-dial international calling like they used to, here are some modern, cost-effective alternatives to call HMRC from abroad (Singapore, in your case):

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Best Current Options​

1. Skype (still available!)​

• Skype still offers cheap international calling — just not as well advertised now.
• You can buy Skype Credit or a subscription and use it to dial UK landlines.
• Cost: Approx 2.3¢ USD/min to UK landlines.
• Works on PC, Mac, and smartphone.

https://www.skype.com/en/rates/

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2. Google Voice (still works for calling!)​

• If you have a US or UK Google account, you can still add credit to Google Voice.
• Then dial UK landlines from your browser or app.
• Rates: As low as 1¢/min to UK landlines.
• May require a workaround to register if outside supported countries.

https://voice.google.com/

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3. Localphone​

• One of the cheapest and most reliable services for IDD calls.
• UK landline calls are around 0.5¢/min (USD).
• No monthly fees; pay-as-you-go.
• Apps for Android/iOS or use from browser.

https://www.localphone.com/

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4. Rebtel​

• Offers free calling in some regions via WiFi; also low-cost IDD.
• May offer unlimited UK landline calling for a flat fee (~$5/month).
• App-based. Good voice quality over 4G/WiFi.

https://www.rebtel.com/

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5. TextNow (Free option for light use)​

• Get a free US/Canada number and call UK landlines from browser or app.
• May have some call quality issues, but can work if you're patient.
• Free tier may contain ads or limitations.

https://www.textnow.com/

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Recommendations for Your Case​

• Best all-rounder: Skype or Localphone (easy, reliable, and cheap).
• If you want to avoid top-ups: Rebtel free plan or limited Google Voice usage.
• Use a wired headset or quality mic/speaker setup, as you'll likely be on hold 20+ minutes.

 

[mak888]

I need to make a call to the HMRC uk due to a business tax issue. Unfortunately they don't take emails. I have a Vivifi and Simba connection, but neither have a cheap IDD option, and I hear they keep you holding for some time.

In the olden days I used to use Skype or Google Hangouts for this type of thing. But I think they are no more. Can anyone recommend me a solution for this? Thanks in advance for any help.

Use mytello, works perfectly for your use case. I’ve used it for the same thing multiple times and all was good.