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Handwritten Letters VS Typed Letters: Which is Better?

Category: Guides , Handwrytten Help

On average, the US Postal Service sends over  173 million  pieces of mail every day – and that’s just First Class! There’s no doubt that we’re a nation that loves sending snail mail . However, if you’re not used to writing letters , you might be unsure of how to go about it.

One of the biggest problems you’ll run into is how to write your letters efficiently. More precisely, should you be creating typed or handwritten letters?

If you’re struggling to decide between the two, here’s a guide from our team  at Handywrytten  to help you choose!

It All Starts With the Purpose

Add a personal touch, send something to save, show the extra effort, reduce your screen time, things to remember when handwriting letters, you don’t have to worry about handwriting, it’s quicker to type, spell-check is a lifesaver, you can create multiple drafts easily, things to remember when typing, what about the best of both, start creating your own handwritten letters.

The purpose of your letter can dictate whether you should send a handwritten note  or typed letter . It doesn’t always help, but there are some situations that will call for typed letters exclusively. These include letters that are more formal in nature, such as when contacting a company (especially to inquire about something or complain), applying for a job via mail, or sending a letter concerning a legal matter.

For example, if you’re fighting a legal fine, it’s not really a good idea to send something that’s handwritten. Formal topics and organizations will prefer typed letters. If what you’re saying is super important, then it may be best to save a copy and type your letter to avoid any mistakes. You don’t want an important word misread when it comes to a legal matter or when applying for a job! It could affect your whole case!

However, if you’re writing an informal letter , you don’t have to type it. This doesn’t mean you shouldn’t, but it allows you to create traditional and  beautiful handwritten letters  that create a lasting impression.

To help answer your question, let’s start by looking at the benefits of opting for handwritten letters.

Why Send Handwritten Letters?

Lots of people still enjoy writing handwritten letters, although it’s definitely an art form that’s become a lot less popular since the dawn of the computer (and even the typewriter!). But that’s not to say it’s obsolete. There are still plenty of reasons to write with a good old-fashioned pen and paper , and we’ve got some of the best right here:

There’s no denying that a typed letter removes a little bit of the personal touch that a handwritten letter carries. By writing  your words down directly, the recipient can imagine you sitting down and drawing out each letter carefully. Your sincere words will shine through your handwriting . You’re crafting something unique, and if that’s not personal, we don’t know what is!

Of course, typed letters can also be saved by the reciever, but there’s often not the same sentimental attachment. People are much more inclined to save something you handwrote yourself. They can trace the ink with their finger, see the little mistakes you made, and that uniqueness can be worth saving.

Look into the endless times people have chosen to turn handwritten letters into  a book , just to prove how special they are! From love letters to “thinking of you” letters, people will keep them as treasured keepsakes.

There’s something about a handwritten note that stands out. Perhaps it’s that it took longer than simply typing up a message, or that putting pen to paper takes more effort. Regardless, it will show your passion and care towards the recipient.

We’re all guilty of spending too much time staring a screen now and again! Not to mention the effects that the  blue light  of a computer can have on your skin and eyes. By handwriting your letters, you can take time away from the digital world and get back to reality for a moment. 

There are definite pros to writing a letter by hand , but it also has its fair share of disadvantages. For example, if you make a mistake in pen then you can’t just erase it; it’s there forever! So if you do choose to write by hand it can be a good idea to make a first draft, or at least mentally plan what you want to say before you start writing . 

It can also be tough to read other peoples handwriting . If yours isn’t very legible or your recipient has issues with their sight, a handwritten letter may not be the best choice. If you have to send out a lot of letters, that’s also going to become a greater task and could put a strain on your writing hand . 

That’s where Handwrytten comes in.

Send handwritten cards from the comfort of our smartphone app or website. Simply type your message and our robots will create your authentic, handwritten letters with ballpoint pen ! We’ll even mail them for you!

What About Typed Letters?

We’ve reviewed the benefits of handwriting your notes, so now let’s look at the pros of typed letters.

Not everyone has the best handwriting , and if yours isn’t top notch, then you might be better off typing your thoughts out. (Or using Handwrytten’s readily available handwritten fonts!) Handwriting has to be legible to be read, and you might spend time worrying over yours when you don’t necessarily need to! 

As long as you’re used to typing on a keyboard, the chances are it’s going to be quicker than writing by hand . You don’t have to be a super speedy typist to outrun the speed of handwritten notes – it does take a long time when working with a pen and paper ! If you’re busy, this could make typing the better option.

Even the greatest spellers make mistakes sometimes. If you’re writing to a friend you can probably excuse a mistake here or there. However, if you’re writing to someone you don’t know as well (or at all), or you really don’t have a good grasp of spelling and grammar, typing can help. There are tons of programs out there that will check your spelling as you write, allowing you edit out all of those little mistakes to create a flawless note .

Not every letter can be done properly the first time. If you’re writing something important, it might take a few drafts for you to get the words exactly as you’d like them. Luckily when you’re typing on a computer, this is a breeze. Rather than starting from scratch like you’d have to with a handwritten letter , you can simply edit the areas you’re not happy with and move sections around until you’ve got it just right. If you’re a perfectionist, that’s going to save a lot of time and stress.

Just like handwritten notes , typing has a whole lot of good attributes. But it does lack the personal touch that handwriting is full of and can seem a little too formal (not personal enough) for certain letters. Thank you notes or congratulatory letters, for example, will come across much better if they’re written by hand !

It’s no secret that both handwritten and typed notes have their downfalls! The great thing about handwritten notes is that they come across as personal, thoughtful, and are filled with more care. However, if you don’t have the handwriting or the time to craft them, they can be a nightmare!

On the other hand , typing isn’t always appropriate and can come across as a little strange for certain letters. So, why not combine the best of both?

At Handwrytten, we provide a handwritten note service, allowing your heartfelt messages to be transformed from text to gorgeous handwritten letters. The idea is simple; you type up the words you want to say, and our robots write them for you.

Okay, so it’s not actually us. It’s our amazing robots that can be programmed to write in a whole range of different handwriting styles. They actually put ballpoint pen to paper and quickly – but precisely – write out your words. It’s an amazing system that can be used for a whole range of purposes!

From gorgeous thank you for purchasing cards to letters for faraway friends, we cover all of your handwriting needs.

Handwritten letters are a thoughtful way to send your words across the globe, and they’re a lot more unique and special than typed notes. But if you can’t handwrite your own, it’s time to look into Handwrytten.

Start learning more about the  features of Handwrytten and make sure to get your letters sent to allow for time to get them delivered , or get in touch with our team today to find out more!

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How to write a handwritten cover letter for a resume.

Most people write their resumes and accompanying cover letters using word processing software. Some, however, feel a handwritten cover letter adds the warmth and personal touch that are often lacking in the business world. In some instances, a handwritten application letter is requested because hiring managers feel it reveals more about you than a printed letter.

Create a Professional Appearance

If you decide to take the unusual step of submitting a handwritten cover letter, be sure it has a professional appearance. Use the same paper that you're using to print your resume. It should be standard 8 1/2-inch by 11-inch business paper. You can use either plain copy paper or a heavier paper with some linen or cotton content, typically sold as resume paper. White or off-white papers are best. Blue ink is usually used when someone wants to indicate a document is an original, rather than a photocopy, but black ink is also acceptable.

It's also acceptable to use personal stationery that is preprinted or embossed with your name or monogram, as long as it has a professional look. Again, white or off-white are safe choices. Ivory and pale gray are neutral and professional. Avoid other colors of paper and ink, as they detract from your letter's content.

Your penmanship must be neat and easy to read. Practice writing your cover letter by hand several times so you can get an idea of spacing on the page. It's helpful to put a sheet of lined paper underneath your writing paper to keep the lines straight and the margins even.

Purpose of a Cover Letter

Remember that the purpose of a cover letter is to draw attention to your resume. Use the cover letter to briefly introduce yourself, demonstrate your interest in the company or position and motivate the reader to schedule a job interview. Submitting a cover letter along with a resume greatly improves the chances that your resume will be read.

Cover Letter Content

Address the cover letter to a specific individual, if possible. A generic opening such as "Dear Sir or Madam" or "To Whom It May Concern" makes your cover letter look like a form letter, even if it's handwritten. If you cannot get the actual name of an individual from the website or by making a phone call to the organization, use a gender-neutral greeting such as "To the Director of Human Resources" or "To the Manager of the ABC Department."

The handwritten cover letter should use the same cover letter format as one that is created electronically. It should be a single page consisting of an introduction, a body and a closing. Within these three parts communicate why you're interested in working for the company, why they should be interested in you and, finally, how you plan to follow up this initial contact.

• Introductory Paragraph: Capture the employer's interest by identifying the position you're applying for and how you heard about the opening. Don't start out by saying "My name is..." since your identity is clearly stated in the stationery header, if there is one, or in the signature block. In a sentence or two, explain your interest in the position.
• Body: In one to three paragraphs, demonstrate that you understand what the position entails and how your qualifications relate to it. Do not merely repeat the language of your resume. Use the cover letter to tell how you'll contribute to the organization. 
• Closing: State your plan for following up in your closing. Suggest what you would like the reader to do, such as "Please feel free to call or contact me by email at your earliest convenience." Better still is a statement of action on your part. For example, you might write, "I plan to phone the week of June 10 so we can talk about the position and my qualifications in more detail."

Use a closing word such as Sincerely or Respectfully, and write your name below it. Sign your name (first and last) legibly, avoiding extra flourishes and juvenile-looking embellishments, such as circles to dot the letter i .

You can find many examples and cover letter templates online. Choose a few that relate best to the position you're applying for. Get some ideas for composing your own letter, but remember that you should never copy directly from an internet source. Hiring managers use the internet, too, and can readily spot a plagiarized document.

Related Articles

The best fonts for business letters →.

How to Write a Professional Letter Template →

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How to Write Emails Expressing Interest in a Job →

How to Write a Formal Business Letter →

Help Writing a Self-Promotion Letter →

• Glassdoor: How to Write a Successful Cover Letter
• University of Wisconsin Madison Writing Center: How to Write a Cover Letter

Denise Dayton is a a freelance writer who specializes in business, education and technology. She has written for eHow.com, Library Journal, The Searcher, Bureau of Education and Research, and corporate clients.

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Handwritten Cover Letter Submission: Is It Acceptable?

In today’s digital age, most job applications are submitted online, yet some job seekers wonder if a handwritten cover letter is still acceptable. Drawing from my extensive experience, I will explore the nuances and suitability of this traditional approach.

Key Takeaways

• Appropriateness : Handwritten cover letters are generally not the norm but may be suitable for creative or personal-touch industries.
• Legibility : Always ensure handwriting is neat and legible; consider professional handwriting or calligraphy if yours is not.
• Personalization : A handwritten letter can showcase personality and effort, making a memorable impression.
• Paper and Ink : Use high-quality paper and ink to convey professionalism.
• Digital Copy : Always include a typed, digital version of the cover letter unless explicitly requested otherwise.

Step 1: Evaluate the Industry and Company Culture

Before deciding to write a handwritten cover letter, consider the industry and specific company culture. For instance, industries like creative arts, boutique retail, or organizations that value artisanal work might appreciate the personal touch of handwriting. 

However, for more formal fields like finance, law, or engineering, a typed letter is generally expected and viewed as more professional.

• Example : In my experience, candidates applying to a boutique stationery store with a handwritten cover letter received positive feedback for aligning with the company’s appreciation for paper products and personal touches.

Step 2: Assess Your Handwriting Quality

The legibility of your handwriting is crucial. If you decide a handwritten cover letter is suitable, ensure your handwriting is not only legible but also aesthetically pleasing. If handwriting  isn’t one of your strengths, consider getting it professionally done or stick to a typed version.

• Tip : Practice on a separate sheet before writing the final version to avoid mistakes and ensure consistency in your lettering.

Step 3: Choose Quality Materials

Using high-quality stationery can make a significant difference. Opt for a neutral, professional paper stock and a high-quality pen to enhance the presentation of your cover letter. This reflects a level of professionalism and respect towards the recipient and the application process.

• Paper: 24lb or higher, cream or white
• Pen: Black or dark blue ink, avoid gel pens that smudge

Step 4: Keep the Content Professional and Concise

A handwritten cover letter should follow the same structure as a typed letter: an introduction, why you’re a good fit for the job, a brief overview of your qualifications, and a call to action. Ensure that your tone remains professional and that you directly address how your skills and experiences align with the job description.

• Opening: Address the hiring manager by name.
• Introduction: Briefly introduce yourself and state the position you are applying for.
• Body: Highlight relevant experiences and skills.
• Conclusion: Express your enthusiasm for the role and invite further discussion.

Step 5: Include a Digital Copy

Even if you submit a handwritten cover letter, it’s advisable to provide a digital copy as well. This ensures that all information is easily accessible to the hiring manager and can be shared with other decision-makers in the company.

• Tip : Attach a scanned copy of the handwritten letter in an email or include it as part of your application package.

Real-Life Example

In one case, a client applied to a small bookshop with a handwritten cover letter. The personal touch resonated well with the store’s quaint, personalized atmosphere, leading to a successful interview. 

However, for another client applying to a tech startup, the same approach was perceived as outdated, underscoring the importance of understanding the industry.

Conclusion: Balancing Tradition and Modern Expectations

While handwritten cover letters can be a charming touch in the right contexts, they are generally not the standard and should be used judiciously. Always consider the industry, company culture, and your ability to produce a neat and professional document. By marrying tradition with modern job application expectations, you can set yourself apart in a personalized way.

• Final Tip : Always follow up with an email or phone call to ensure your application was received and to express your continued interest.

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Home / Blog / How to write a cover letter | Top tips and advice - Talentscrew

How to write a cover letter | Top tips and advice - Talentscrew

02 Jun 2021

If you have made up your mind for job hunting in 2021, make sure to craft your cover letter as perfect as crafting your CV. Till now, you must be wondering how long should your cover letter be?

 It seems a little extra to pen down the same information to the cover letter format most of the time. However, keep in mind that your cover letter should not bring up the same traits as your resume. Rather your job cover letter should focus more on your expertise and skills on your resume that the hiring managers value the most.

So keep in mind that your cover letter must be bespoke for every job application.

Your cover letter can make you stand out of the crow as the employers have to scan dozens of or say hundreds of job applications. Career advisors have considered resume cover letters to be an essential job application component that job seekers can't afford to leave at any cost.

Most job seekers seek an answer to a common question " how long a cover letter should has to be." Undoubtedly, writing a cover letter is a daunting task, as you have to introduce yourself as the best of all the candidates. Don't stress out as this blog is a solution to your problem "how long should a cover letter be for a job application?"

But before that, let's start with the basics.

What Is A Cover Letter? 

A job cover letter, also known as a Letter of Application, is a formal document comparable to precise interview round. It is that well-mannered self-introduction that provides your future boss a crisp and brief overview and snapshot of who you are before digging into deeper conversation.

A cover letter, being a part of your job application, is mainly included as an individual document that comprises no more than 400 words.

Purpose Of A Cover Letter

The cover letter is a key to differentiate yourself from other job seekers and an opportunity to speak one-to-one with the recruiters. Make sure to craft your cover letter quirky to get the hiring manager's attention.

Try to cover a short elevator statement within your cover letter that hooks the recruiter's attention and blows away any doubts or concerns to generate interest.

Is it necessary to include a cover letter?

Well, the answer to this question is No. It is not always mandatory to write a cover letter. It is not even feasible to write a cover letter for as many job applications as you make.

Writing a cover letter is a highly personalized way to address a specific employer that connects directly to your target audience. You cannot succeed by crafting a single "one size fit for all" letter and attach it to every job posting. Career advisors always recommend giving a personal touch to your cover letter by showing some enthusiasm. Mind it, either do it properly or don't do it.

How To Write A Cover Letter

Step 1: do your research.

It is always advised to research before you begin anything. Before you start writing a cover letter, make sure to get yourself updated about the company. Read the job description many times. Don't forget to visit their social media handle, their feeds, tweets, and much more. Feel the company culture by having a word with the current employees, talking to the front desk, and getting to know what the job post is all about. Try to connect with the company employees working at the same post on LinkedIn . By doing this, you will get a real insight into the job description.

Step 2: Answer questions in advance

Pre-empt potential questions that may emerge with your CV. For instance, if you listed Delhi as your location, however, the job is in Bengaluru, an employer is probably going to reject your application without any thought simply. Career advisors recommend using positive words such as, "I'm right now in the process of moving to Bengaluru with accessibility to begin in about fourteen days" - assuage worries ahead of time. 

Career changes, salary expectations, long career gaps, total experience (either too senior or junior) are any remaining examples of information that may need to be tended to. Your cover letter is the primary step to overcome these obstacles.

Step 3: Show enthusiasm

Recruiters need to feel like you truly need to join their company, cover letters show them who is set up to go above and beyond, and exhibit the demeanor, interest, and enthusiasm for the chance. 

Numerous applicants share comparative skills and strengths , education, and expertise in the present market, so managers regularly see cover letters as a differentiator to feature disposition and character. 

Numerous recruiters share this mantra: "You don't recruit for skills; you are hired for attitude. You can generally teach skills". 

Cover Letter Writing Etiquette – The Golden Rule

The golden rule of how to write a cover letter for a job is:

If your letter is addressed to a named individual, for example, Dear Mr. X, Dear Miss X, Dear Mrs. X, or Dear Ms. X, then the letter should end with a "Yours sincerely" (the sincerely has an "s" in lower case). 

If your letter is addressed to an anonymous contact, for example, Dear Sir, Dear Madam, Dear Sir/Madam, or To Whom It Might Concern, then the letter should end with a "Yours faithfully" (again use small "f" for faithfully).

Should a cover letter be handwritten?

When you react to a job post, your resume and different documents are normally accompanied by a cover letter. As a job seeker, you might be uncertain about whether a cover letter should be manually written. Still, in the present digital world, there are valid justifications to write your cover letter electronically . 

Here are few convincing reasons why it bodes well to use a laptop/computer to compose your cover letter.

1. We live in a world of digitalization.

2. Hiring managers are keen to see good evidence of better computer skills

3. A computerized typed cover letter is saved as a record

4. Most of the recruiters prefer a cover letter prepared digitally.

There might be uncommon events when the company accepts a handwritten job cover letter . This can apply, for example, if the organization you are applying to is profoundly traditional. 

But, for MNCs, parts in the field of money or IT, or if you are going after an executive job post, recruiting directors will hope to see a cover letter crafted using a PC.

The bottom of " how long a cover letter be for a job application " is to play safe and put pen and paper aside when curating a cover letter. Drafting your letter on a computer offers various benefits, including tidiness, speed, and the capacity to spell check what you have written at the key click. Composing a cover letter can be scary. If you make sure to keep your writing concise and feature just your significant experiences, you will be en route to catching a job interview right away. 

Everything adds to a professional document that makes a good impression on the recruiting director. Good luck!!!

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Top Ten Mistakes When Writing A Cover Letter

When unemployment is high, competition for the few positions available gets fierce. This means your application has to be perfect to give you a chance at an interview. Any mistakes on your cover letter could cost you the job. Here are ten of the most common errors to avoid.

Spelling and Grammatical Errors

This is the biggest mistake anyone can make with a job application cover letter. Proofread your letter and ask a friend to do so as well. Take care over the letter.

A simple spelling mistake effectively says to the prospective employer, “I do not care about what I do, and I will be this sloppy or careless in work I will do for you too.” You certainly would not consider employing anyone who said this in an interview, so why should a prospective employer bother to interview you, if you cannot bother to double check what you wrote in your cover letter.

Starting Every Sentence with, “I”

While you want to market your skills and abilities to the prospective employer, starting every single sentence with “I can do…”, “I have done…” etc, is tedious to read and is not effective. You need to add interest to the letter by writing in a way that avoids repetition, and starting every sentence or paragraph the same way.

Try other sentence beginnings, such as, “In my role as xxx, I achieved …” or “My experience in xxx is extensive, or “With 20 years experience in xxx, I will provide your company with …”, or “This role is similar to my position at xxx.”

As well as not starting every sentence with “I” or the same style of beginning, avoid the use of “I” too many times in the letter.

Creative Desktop Publishing

This is a business letter, not a brochure. Avoid using desktop publishing programs such as Microsoft Publisher and adding clip art, effects, or fancy fonts . Choose an accepted generic font like Arial, Times New Roman, or Verdana. Keep sub-headings to a minimum and use a simple bold to accentuate the sub-headings, rather than italics or any other fancy font. The font size should be a visible 12 point.

Making the Letter Too Short

A cover letter is supposed to be a vehicle to explain to prospective employers why you should be employed and how you meet the selection criteria for the position. Simply stating, “Please find my attached CV in application for the position of Managing Director,” will not win you an interview for the job. Make sure you address the selection criteria mentioned in the job advertisement or position description. A cover letter should be one to two pages at the most, properly formatted. Writing concisely is good, but ensure you include enough detail to market yourself to a prospective employer.

The 500 Word Paragraph

Break up your paragraphs. A cover letter should not be one lengthy paragraph with a salutation at the top and a signature at the bottom. Try to address one or two selection criteria that go together in each paragraph. Each sentence should have between eight to 15 words, and each paragraph should contain two to three sentences.

Talking Nonsense or in Strange Language

No-one actually says, “Please find enclosed herewith my CV.” Although the job application is a formal document, use every day language. “My CV is attached for your information,” is fine.

Another common error is trying too hard to sound impressive, and ending up not making sense at all. Re-read your sentences and ensure you have not said something strange, or a sentence that cannot be understood by a normal business person. One teacher wrote the following in a real cover letter, “I am a conduit for mainstream educational formal connections and I work to build an individual’s creative forms.” Huh? Write in every day language to make your letter clear.

Making the Reader Squint

You know that a cover letter should never be more than two pages long, but you have so much to say that you reduce the font down to such a small size to make your letter fit. Instead of reducing the font, write your letter using concise language and use fewer words. A good cover letter should have a wide margin of two or three centimetres on both sides, and will use 12 point size font.

Using Handwriting

The only place handwriting should appear on the cover letter is your signature. Handwriting a cover letter shows a lack of interest in the position, especially in a technological era where computers are easily accessible. Borrow a computer if you have to but always type or word process your cover letter. It looks more professional. One of the worse mistakes people make is handwriting a couple of sentences on a post it note and sticking it on the resume as if it was a cover letter. Write a proper letter or don’t bother applying for the job.

Not Including All Required Details

Often job applicants forget to include all contact details on the cover letter, or assume that the resume will have these details. However, it is possible for prospective employers to separate cover letters from resumes. Therefore, you need to make sure all the details are included in the cover letter.

Cover letters should start with your contact details including your name, a full address (not a post office box as this makes it look as if you are a transient), email contact and telephone contact numbers. This should appear on the top right hand side of the page. Below this, with a line space in between, the receiver’s contact details including name, position, company name and address should appear on the left hand side of the page.

Leave a space line after the address and then insert the date, spelling out the month in full. Leave another space line before the salutation. You should include the details of the position you are applying for, in case the company is currently recruiting for several jobs. Include a handwritten signature at the bottom of the cover letter.

Justifying Right and Bad Formatting

Justifying text right means that big gaps appear in the cover letter and this makes the letter harder to read. Keep a professional appearance to the cover letter with plenty of ‘white space’. Every paragraph should be separated by a line of white space, as this makes the letter easier to read. You do not want a prospective employer deciding not to interview you, simply because your letter was too hard to read due to bad formatting. Make sure the letter looks professional.

Avoiding these ten common mistakes will help you to write a better cover letter. Proofread and double check what you are sending, before you sign the bottom of the page. Your cover letter is an important facet of the job application process and you need to spend some time and care on writing the cover letter properly.

With 20+ years of experience writing CVs, it still puts a smile on my face when I hear a client has secured an interview Lee Tonge - Founder and Director

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The covering letter should outline your reasons for applying and demonstrate broadly how you meet the requirements of the position.

It is normally the first thing the selection panel will read. It is important that the covering letter looks good, sounds positive and enthusiastic, and attracts the reader's attention. It is also one way of demonstrating your written communication skills.

• What to include

Typed or handwritten

Positive tone, what to include.

It is recommended that you include the following information in your covering letter:

• Your address
• Date of your application
• Title and reference number of the position for which you're applying
• Indication of what is included in your application; for example, résumé, statement addressing the selection criteria (optional), written references (optional), and the like.
• Statement of why you are interested in the position and what particularly attracts you about the job, the work area.
• One or more paragraphs outlining broadly how you meet the requirements of the position and selection criteria. This may include highlighting the most relevant skills or abilities you can bring to the position, your familiarity with the workplace/job requirements, any relevant personal qualities or attributes, and the benefits of employing you.
• Optional - examples of how you meet one or more of the selection criteria. See Addressing the selection criteria for more information.
• How and when you can be contacted if required to attend an interview.

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There are different views about whether the covering letter should be typed or handwritten.

In general a typed letter looks better presented, neater and easier to read, so if you have access to a computer, it is probably a good idea to provide a typed covering letter.

If you do decide to produce a handwritten letter, make sure it is legible, neat and easy to read.

All of your written application needs to sound positive and enthusiastic. This is particularly important with your covering letter, since this is the first document a selection panel will read. How you phrase things and the words you use can convey either a positive or a negative message to the selection panel.

Try to avoid saying what you can't do ; avoid phrases such as:

• 'I don't have any experience in ....'
• 'My knowledge of .... is limited'

or words such as:

• unfortunately

Use of such words and phrases may convey a negative message to the selection panel that you either do not have the necessary skills and experience, or that you lack self-confidence.

Instead, focus on positive statements, such as:

• 'I have experience in ....'
• 'My knowledge of .... includes ....'

and words such as:

• good/excellent.

Such positive words and phrases convey to the selection panel that you do have the skills and experience, and that you have confidence in your own abilities.

If possible, keep your covering letter to a single page. Too much information, especially if it is not relevant to the job, may detract from the letter. Your statement addressing the selection criteria is the place to give more detailed information about yourself and your ability to do the job.

The examples of covering letters include:

• A pro-forma letter highlighting the types of information that could be included in a letter
• how a covering letter for a particular University vacancy might look.
• a cover letter example for an Administrative Assistant role.

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How To Write a Handwritten Cover Letter in 9 Steps (Plus Tips)

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Related: How to Write a Cover Letter, Job Search Tips + Who’s Hiring?

Jenn, a career coach at Indeed, takes a deep dive into strategies for the job search, switching careers, and writing a standout cover letter.

Cover letters can offer helpful opportunities to tell prospective employers more about who you are as a candidate, what qualifications you have for a role and what excites you about a position. One way to help differentiate yourself from other job candidates is to write a handwritten letter. Learning how to write an effective cover letter by hand can help ensure you submit a letter employers appreciate. In this article, we explain why it’s important to write a handwritten cover letter, list steps you can take to complete one and offer tips for writing a cover letter by hand.

Why is writing a handwritten cover letter important?

Writing a handwritten cover letter can be a unique way to attract the attention of prospective employers and communicate your sincere interest in a position. Here are some reasons it’s important to write a handwritten cover letter:

It’s more personal

One reason handwritten cover letters are important is because they’re closer to a personal letter than a professionally typed application document. While this might not be appropriate for every position you apply for, writing a handwritten letter can help you connect with your reader more strongly. If you’re applying for a small business or a family-run organization, handwritten letters can help your communications feel more intentional and sincere.

It can help differentiate you from other candidates

Handwritten cover letters can be rare. With so many applications taking place online, many people type their cover letters for ease of sending. That’s why it’s a good idea to use a handwritten letter if you’re applying for a position in person, rather than submitting your application online. Hand delivering and handwriting your letter can make you a more memorable candidate. Your choice to go against convention might intrigue a prospective employer and encourage them to learn more about you.

It communicates more about your personality

The choice to submit a handwritten letter alone can reveal a lot about your personality. Handwriting can also be a personal detail many employers don’t see from the majority of their applicants. By handwriting your letter, you might be communicating that you’re old fashioned or that you sincerely care about the position.

Related:   Handwritten Interview Thank You Notes: Do’s and Don’ts

How to write a handwritten cover letter

If you’re interested in writing your cover letter by hand, here are some steps you can take:

1. Write a first draft

When writing a handwritten letter, it’s important to write a draft before copying your content into your final letter. On your draft, you can write notes, cross out misspelled words or reorganize your content. Without the convenience of a computer, it’s important you prepare everything you want to say before committing to your letter.

2. Include your contact information

At the top of the letter, on the left-hand side, write about how an employer can contact you. List your name, your phone number and email address. Most cover letter writers omit their physical address because they’re less common in modern cover letters, but you might choose to include one if it’s how you expect to receive a reply from an employer.

If you’re handwriting a letter because you don’t have access to email or a computer, consider visiting a public library so you can check your communications there. Many employers use email to communicate with candidates, so listing something you check regularly can be important for hearing about next steps.

3. Address your letter

To begin your letter, address your reader by name. You might have to do research on the organization to learn who’s in charge of the hiring process. Sometimes, you can find a hiring manager’s name on the job posting. For handwritten letters, it’s especially important to know who your reader is because of the personal nature of your letter.

4. Introduce yourself

Begin your letter by introducing who you are and why you’re writing. Reference the organization’s name and job title specifically. This can help clarify which role you’re interested in within a company.

5. Explain why you’re interested in the position

Conclude your first paragraph by explaining what interests you about the position. Explain why you’re excited about the opportunity and what you hope to gain from the role. You might have chosen to write a handwritten letter because you care a lot about the position. If this is the case, do your best to communicate your interest to the employer. Most employers like to see passionate and enthusiastic candidates and they might be more inclined to invite you in for an interview.

6. Talk about your value as a candidate

In your second paragraph, talk about your relevant skills and experience so employers can better understand your value as a candidate. You might explain past positions you’ve held, achievements you’ve accomplished or special skills you think they’d find helpful. Be sure to make this paragraph specific to the position. Reference their job posting or request for help specifically and help assure them you’re the best candidate for the role.

7. Thank your reader for their time

To conclude your letter, express your sincere gratitude to the employer for considering your application. Express an interest in learning more about the next steps of the hiring process and reiterate your enthusiasm for the position. Finish your letter by printing your name and adding your signature beneath it.

8. Review your writing

Look over your draft to ensure your writing is clear, concise and free from spelling or grammatical errors. This can be especially challenging with handwritten letters because you don’t have convenient access to spell checking extensions or applications. Take your time when reviewing your letter and look up the spelling of any words you’re not confident about including. You can also ask someone you trust to review your letter to ensure it’s easy to read.

9. Write your final draft

When you’re confident with your writing, rewrite your letter on a fresh sheet of paper. Take your time and use your best handwriting. If you have to cross out writing, start again with fresh paper. It’s important to present a letter that’s free of stains, major revisions or difficult-to-read writing.

Tips for writing a handwritten cover letter

Here are some additional tips that can help you maximize the success of your handwritten cover letter:

Use good handwriting

If you plan to write your own cover letter, ensure your handwriting is legible. Use your best handwriting for your cover letter and consider asking a friend if they can read your writing. Consider writing slightly larger than you’re used to. It’s important an employer can read your content so they understand your qualifications and enthusiasm for the position.

Consider the employer

Some employers might appreciate the gesture of a handwritten letter, but some may not. Consider the employer when deciding whether to type or write your letter. If they explicitly ask for online applications, it might be better to follow directions. If you’re applying to a locally owned shop or business, they might appreciate your handwritten letter more.

Hand deliver your letter

When delivering the documents of your application, make sure it’s easy to tell which documents go together. You could choose to mail your letter along with your other application documents, or you can deliver your letter in person. If you’re applying to a smaller business, it might be good to hand deliver your letter so you can introduce yourself and help employers know who you are.

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• Career Planning
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• Cover Letters

How to Sign a Cover Letter (With Signature Examples)

• Do You Need to Sign a Cover Letter?
• Sign Uploaded or Printed Cover Letters
• Cover Letter Signatures Examples
• Signatures If You're Emailing
• Signature Examples for Emails

Which Email Address to Use

How to add a digital signature, need more cover letter help.

  South_agency / E+ / Getty Images

When writing a cover letter to include with your resume, it's important to pay attention to every detail, since you only get one chance to make that first impression. So, what exactly should you include in your signature when you're writing your cover letter to apply for a job?

It varies, depending on how you apply for the position. The format and information included in your signature will change according to whether you are mailing, uploading, or emailing your cover letter document. 

Does Your Cover Letter Need a Written Signature?

When distributing your cover letter online by emailing it or uploading it onto a company’s web portal, it is not necessary to hand sign your cover letter. Employers don’t expect to see your handwritten signature on your cover letter. You could add a scanned image of your signature to your document, but it is optional and not required.

How To Sign an Uploaded or Printed Cover Letter

Uploaded Letter:  If you're uploading your cover letter to a job site, your signature will simply include an  appropriate closing phrase and your full name. Place a comma after your close, such as  Best,  or  Sincerely yours,  and then insert your name in the line below. 

Use a formal business-style letter format that includes a heading, salutation, the body of the letter, closing phrase, and your signature. Review these  guidelines for what to include in your letter .

Hard Copy Letter:  When you're printing a hard copy letter, include a closing phrase, your handwritten signature, and your typed full name. Leave several spaces between the closing phrase and your typed name. That way, you'll have room for your signature when you print out the letter. Sign it using either blue or black ink. 

Signature Examples for Uploaded or Printed Letters

For uploaded or hard copy printed letters, there is no need to include as much information as you would in an email message, because the  heading of your cover letter  includes your contact information.

Signature Example (uploaded letter)

Best regards,

Janet Dolan

Signature Format (signed letter)

Closing phrase, 

Handwritten Signature 

First Name Last Name

Signature Example (signed letter)

Janet Dolan (Your Signature)

What to Include in an Email Signature 

If you are emailing your cover letter or inquiry letter, end with a polite sign-off followed by your full name. There is no need to sign a cover letter that's being sent electronically. Write out your full name in the same font as the rest of the letter, and don't use italics or a handwriting font. 

The formatting here is very similar to that in an uploaded cover letter. However, emails do not contain a header with your phone number or other contact information. 

It's a good idea to include these details in your closing paragraph or after your typed signature. That makes it easy for the employer or networking contact to get in touch with you.

You can also include links to online portfolios, if appropriate, or a link to your professional social media accounts, such as LinkedIn or Twitter.

You don't want to make this section too cluttered, so restrict yourself to the most relevant information. Here's how to set up an email signature, along with more advice on what to include in it and what to leave out. 

Signature Examples for Emailed Documents

When you are  sending email cover letters , it's important to include contact information so the hiring manager can easily see how to contact you. At the very least, include your name, email address, and phone number. You can also add other optional information, such as your street address, online portfolio, or social media accounts.

Email Signature Format

Your Name Email Phone

Email Signature Example

Karina Hoffman karina.hoffman@email.com 555-123-5678

Sample Email Signature With Full Address

Your Name Street City, State Zip Code Email Phone

Sample Email Signature With Social Media Handles

Your Name Email Phone LinkedIn Profile  (Optional)  Twitter Account  (Optional)

Don't use your work email address for job searching. Use your personal email account, or set up a unique account to use just for your job hunt. Many free online email services exist, like Gmail and Yahoo Mail, which you can use to set up a new email account exclusively for your job search.

Even though you are using a personal account, choose an email address that looks professional.

Your best bet is some variation on first initial, last name (e.g., jdoe@gmail.com) or first name, last name (janedoe@gmail.com). Here's how to set up an email account just for your job search.

Adding a handwritten signature is an optional touch, though definitely not required, and it is possible to add your handwritten signature digitally. The simplest way is to use a scanner or a scanner app on your smartphone:

Simply sign a piece of printer paper and then scan the page.

After scanning, the software will give you the opportunity to crop the scanned image (that is, cut the image down to the size of your written signature) or you can crop it in Word.

Once you’ve cropped your signature image to the appropriate size, save your signature as a .gif, .jpg, or .png file to your desktop or a folder on your computer.

Open the Word document where you composed your cover letter and then insert the image of your signature into the document underneath your closing phrase.

Remember to type your name below your handwritten signature.

Get information on  how to write a cover letter , including what to include in your cover letter, cover letter format, targeted cover letters, and cover letter samples and examples.

Georgetown University. Cawley Career Education Center. " Cover Letters ."

Microsoft Office. " Insert a Signature ."

Is It Better to Write or Type a Letter?

Write or Type Business Letters

If you want to be taken seriously in this day and age, you would certainly choose to type rather than write when sending a business letter. The only part of a business letter you should write by hand is the signature. Here are some of the reasons it’s appropriate to type rather than write a business letter.

• Your handwriting may not be all that easy to read.
• You can’t as easily make changes to a handwritten business letter, so even if you draft it several times , you may not express yourself as well when you write by hand.
• A typed letter looks neater and more professional, no matter how neat your handwriting is.
• If your keyboard skills are up to scratch, typing is a lot faster than writing.
• Spell check can save you from embarrassment. Yes! I spelled “embarrassment” correctly the first time! Can you?

In the business world, handwritten letters are extremely rare, but there is one place other than the signature where I feel handwriting offers a special touch. If you’re thanking someone with a brief note, the kind that gets written on ‘compliments slips’ or greeting cards, then I think writing by hand is more personal.

Write or Type Personal Letters

There’s still something lovely about getting a letter via “snail mail.” Should you write it or type it? I doubt whether anyone would be offended by a typed letter, and it has the advantages of being easier to write, easier to edit, and easier to read.

Still, a handwritten letter is a labor of love and provided it’s legible and well thought out. I think most people would acknowledge that you went to extra effort on their behalf with a handwritten personal letter. What’s more, any errors that sneak in will be forgiven because you’re presumably writing to someone who is close to you. They like you, even love you, and it’s probably not for your skill at spelling .

Before you decide to give a personal letter a special touch by writing it with old-fashioned pen and paper, know what you’re letting yourself in for.

• You need to plan ahead by creating a rough framework so that your thoughts flow logically.
• You’ll have to write at least two versions and possibly more.
• You need to be able to write neatly so that it’s easily readable.
• You need the right equipment.

Choose attractive note paper, and if you struggle to keep your lines straight on paper without lines, choose paper with ruled lines. Another option is to use slightly transparent paper that will let you see a sheet with ruled lines when you place it beneath the page you are working with. Choose a pen with ink that won’t easily smudge, and pick a dark colored ink. Gold may look pretty, but it isn’t easy to read a full letter written in gold pen. Black ink is best.

Additional Advantages of Typed Personal Letters

One thing you should remember about handwritten letters is that you’ll get less text on each page. If you have a lot to say in your letter, typing is probably a better solution. You don’t want to end up trying to cram a ten-page missive into an envelope.

If you’re planning to write to several people, you can “cheat” just a little bit. It’s easy to adapt the introductory and closing paragraphs with personal messages for each recipient while the body text remains the same, or nearly the same, for all the letters you’re going to send.

Last but not least, if your letter gets lost in the post, you’ll have a copy saved on your computer and won’t have to rewrite your letter from scratch.

When’s the Last Time You Sent a Handwritten Letter?

Handwritten letters are quite rare these days. I think that their rarity makes them rather special. If I were to write a love letter, I believe I would choose a handwritten letter. What would you do?

(Photo courtesy of Annie Pilon )

If you are writing to a friend or loved one, always right by hand. If it’s a more formal letter, always opt to type. Those are my simple rules.

Do people even write letters these days? That seems so old school and such a waste of time. There is a thing called e-mail and texting. I’m 22 years old and I don’t think I’ve ever received a letter in the mail other than from companies or utilities. I think in this day and age letter writing is obsolete and the only people who would consider doing it and out of touch of the reality of today’s technology.

How obnoxious can you be? Just because you may not write letters doesn’t mean that they aren’t cherished by others. When’s the last time you’ve reread an email time and again as I often do with the letters I’ve received? What you may think as antiquated shows how much you care for someone.

I’m old school.I will always write handwritten letters

What are you 12? Go play fortnite

With this kind of mindset you’ve portrayed in your comment, you probably won’t ever receive a personal letter from someone.

Well,I would receive handwritten official letters especially in cases where I’d need to do an unmanipulated check into the writer’s personality.

…And about making errors in handwriting,why do typos exist?

Ea reprehenderit con

iam a cursive writer

These days writing a letter maybe out of fashion or something like dope but to maintain or enhance our skills in writing or using words i will always recommend you to write letters especially to your loved ones or friends who live far away. The advantage with typing is that it promises to reach on time if its something formal we want to write it is always better to write a letter well we do use texts to save time that is actually better than writing letters but writing letters can create that need to read the thing . Writing to beloved ones and getting letters from beloved ones is always better than just texting them. These days some children don’t even know how to write a letter they just text due to this the kids get spoiled always using the computer or the phone to chat and stuff. i recommend all parents to encourage their children to write letters to their loved ones at least. That’s all from me thank you

For friendly personal letters, if I have all the time to spare , I’ll take the time to write the letter by hand. My handwriting isn’t that great, and it’s time-consuming to try to make it legible. JFK’s handwriting is a quadrillion times more legible than mines. If, OTOH, I’ve got other disasters that are waiting for my immediate attention , then I’ll type the letter in my old, dusty and trusty, manual 1919 Oliver typewriter. I’m pretty fast at typing on this typewriter, mistakes and all. I don’t go back worrying about typos, misspellings, grammar, punctuation, cross-outs. It’s a single take, and it’s a wrap.

David McCullough, the famed historian, once said, “If you want to do future historians a favor, write letters and keep journals on high quality acid free paper. We don’t know how long emails will last.” McCullough said that he discovered, while researching his book 1776, that letters and journals kept in archives from that era were still easily read because they had been written on acid-free cotton “paper.” I write letters to my kids and grandkids either hand written on quality paper or using my manual Olympia typewriter. I talk about what is happening in the family and world. I so wish I had letters or journal entries from my great grandfather who was a Confederate cavalry soldier who fought at Shiloh. What was he thinking? Letters are wonderful.

write a letter is sometime hard and sometime easy. I think both of the idea is great noting is bad at all.

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Information Technology Technician Cover Letter: Sample & Guide (Entry Level & Senior Jobs)

Create a standout information technology technician cover letter with our online platform. browse professional templates for all levels and specialties. land your dream role today.

As technology continues to play a critical role in the success of businesses, the need for skilled information technology technicians has never been greater. If you are considering a career in IT and are seeking a new opportunity, a well-crafted cover letter could be the key to landing your dream job. In this guide, we'll provide you with essential tips and a sample template to help you create a compelling IT technician cover letter.

We will cover:

• How to write a cover letter, no matter your industry or job title.
• What to put on a cover letter to stand out.
• The top skills employers from every industry want to see.
• How to build a cover letter fast with our professional Cover Letter Builder .
• Why you should use a cover letter template

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Information Technology Technician Cover Letter Sample

Dear Hiring Manager,

I am writing to express my interest in the Information Technology Technician position at your company. With a strong background in IT support and a passion for solving technical problems, I am confident that I would be a valuable asset to your team.

I have a proven track record of providing technical support and troubleshooting for both hardware and software issues. In my previous role at XYZ Company, I was responsible for managing and maintaining the company's network systems, providing user support, and ensuring the security and integrity of our IT infrastructure. I have experience with a wide range of operating systems and software applications, and I am comfortable working with both Windows and Mac environments.

In addition to my technical skills, I have excellent communication and customer service abilities. I understand the importance of being able to explain technical concepts in a clear and understandable manner, and I am committed to providing exceptional support to end users. I am also comfortable working independently or as part of a team, and I am always eager to take on new challenges and learn new technologies.

I am especially drawn to the opportunity at your company because of your commitment to innovation and your dedication to providing the best possible technology solutions for your clients. I am eager to contribute to your team and to help drive your company's success through the effective use of technology.

I am confident that my combination of technical expertise, customer service skills, and passion for IT support make me the perfect candidate for this position. I am excited about the opportunity to bring my unique talents to your company and to help you achieve your goals. Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to the opportunity to discuss my qualifications in more detail.

[Your Name]

Why Do you Need a Information Technology Technician Cover Letter?

• Provides a formal introduction: A cover letter is an opportunity to introduce yourself to the potential employer and provide a brief overview of your qualifications and skills.
• Highlights relevant experience: A cover letter allows you to showcase your specific experience and skills related to the information technology field.
• Personalizes your application: A well-written cover letter can show your enthusiasm for the position and company, which can set you apart from other candidates.
• Demonstrates communication skills: Writing a cover letter demonstrates your ability to effectively communicate and articulate your ideas.
• Allows for customization: A cover letter can be tailored to each job application, allowing you to highlight the most relevant experiences and qualifications for the specific position.
• Showcases your professionalism: A well-crafted cover letter demonstrates your attention to detail and professionalism, which can leave a positive impression on the employer.

A Few Important Rules To Keep In Mind

• Address the cover letter to a specific person if possible. If you are unsure of the name, use a generic salutation such as "Dear Hiring Manager."
• Start with a strong introduction that clearly states your interest in the Information Technology Technician position and highlights your relevant experience and skills.
• Use clear and concise language to explain how your technical abilities and familiarity with software and hardware make you a strong candidate for the position.
• Showcase your problem-solving skills and ability to troubleshoot technical issues in previous roles or projects.
• Use specific examples to demonstrate your ability to work well in a team, communicate effectively, and manage projects.
• Close the cover letter with a strong conclusion that reiterates your interest in the position and expresses your enthusiasm for the opportunity to contribute to the company's IT department.
• Proofread the cover letter carefully to ensure there are no spelling or grammar errors.
• Keep the cover letter to one page in length and use a professional font and formatting.

What's The Best Structure For Information Technology Technician Cover Letters?

After creating an impressive Information Technology Technician resume , the next step is crafting a compelling cover letter to accompany your job applications. It's essential to remember that your cover letter should maintain a formal tone and follow a recommended structure. But what exactly does this structure entail, and what key elements should be included in a Information Technology Technician cover letter? Let's explore the guidelines and components that will make your cover letter stand out.

Key Components For Information Technology Technician Cover Letters:

• Your contact information, including the date of writing
• The recipient's details, such as the company's name and the name of the addressee
• A professional greeting or salutation, like "Dear Mr. Levi,"
• An attention-grabbing opening statement to captivate the reader's interest
• A concise paragraph explaining why you are an excellent fit for the role
• Another paragraph highlighting why the position aligns with your career goals and aspirations
• A closing statement that reinforces your enthusiasm and suitability for the role
• A complimentary closing, such as "Regards" or "Sincerely," followed by your name
• An optional postscript (P.S.) to add a brief, impactful note or mention any additional relevant information.

Cover Letter Header

A header in a cover letter should typically include the following information:

• Your Full Name: Begin with your first and last name, written in a clear and legible format.
• Contact Information: Include your phone number, email address, and optionally, your mailing address. Providing multiple methods of contact ensures that the hiring manager can reach you easily.
• Date: Add the date on which you are writing the cover letter. This helps establish the timeline of your application.

It's important to place the header at the top of the cover letter, aligning it to the left or center of the page. This ensures that the reader can quickly identify your contact details and know when the cover letter was written.

Cover Letter Greeting / Salutation

A greeting in a cover letter should contain the following elements:

• Personalized Salutation: Address the hiring manager or the specific recipient of the cover letter by their name. If the name is not mentioned in the job posting or you are unsure about the recipient's name, it's acceptable to use a general salutation such as "Dear Hiring Manager" or "Dear [Company Name] Recruiting Team."
• Professional Tone: Maintain a formal and respectful tone throughout the greeting. Avoid using overly casual language or informal expressions.
• Correct Spelling and Title: Double-check the spelling of the recipient's name and ensure that you use the appropriate title (e.g., Mr., Ms., Dr., or Professor) if applicable. This shows attention to detail and professionalism.

For example, a suitable greeting could be "Dear Ms. Johnson," or "Dear Hiring Manager," depending on the information available. It's important to tailor the greeting to the specific recipient to create a personalized and professional tone for your cover letter.

Cover Letter Introduction

An introduction for a cover letter should capture the reader's attention and provide a brief overview of your background and interest in the position. Here's how an effective introduction should look:

• Opening Statement: Start with a strong opening sentence that immediately grabs the reader's attention. Consider mentioning your enthusiasm for the job opportunity or any specific aspect of the company or organization that sparked your interest.
• Brief Introduction: Provide a concise introduction of yourself and mention the specific position you are applying for. Include any relevant background information, such as your current role, educational background, or notable achievements that are directly related to the position.
• Connection to the Company: Demonstrate your knowledge of the company or organization and establish a connection between your skills and experiences with their mission, values, or industry. Showcasing your understanding and alignment with their goals helps to emphasize your fit for the role.
• Engaging Hook: Consider including a compelling sentence or two that highlights your unique selling points or key qualifications that make you stand out from other candidates. This can be a specific accomplishment, a relevant skill, or an experience that demonstrates your value as a potential employee.
• Transition to the Body: Conclude the introduction by smoothly transitioning to the main body of the cover letter, where you will provide more detailed information about your qualifications, experiences, and how they align with the requirements of the position.

By following these guidelines, your cover letter introduction will make a strong first impression and set the stage for the rest of your application.

Cover Letter Body

I am writing to express my interest in the Information Technology Technician position at your company. With a strong background in IT support and a passion for solving technical issues, I am confident in my ability to contribute to your team and provide excellent service to your clients.

• Introduction: Start by introducing yourself and expressing your interest in the position. Mention where you found the job posting and any mutual connections you may have.
• Skills and Experience: Highlight your relevant skills and experience, such as troubleshooting hardware and software issues, setting up and maintaining networks, and providing technical support to end-users. Use specific examples to demonstrate your expertise.
• Certifications and Education: Mention any relevant certifications or degrees you hold, such as CompTIA A+, Network+, or a bachelor's degree in Information Technology. This demonstrates your commitment to staying current in the field.
• Customer Service: Emphasize your ability to provide excellent customer service and communicate technical information in a clear and understandable manner. This is crucial in a role where you will be supporting end-users with varying levels of technical knowledge.
• Teamwork and Collaboration: Discuss your ability to work effectively in a team environment and collaborate with colleagues to solve complex technical issues. Highlight any experience working on cross-functional teams or leading IT projects.
• Conclusion: Close your cover letter by expressing your enthusiasm for the opportunity to join the company and contribute to its success. Thank the hiring manager for their time and consideration.

Thank you for considering my application. I am eager to bring my technical skills and enthusiasm for IT support to your team. I am looking forward to the opportunity to discuss how my experience and capabilities align with the needs of your company. Please feel free to contact me at your earliest convenience to schedule a meeting.

Complimentary Close

The conclusion and signature of a cover letter provide a final opportunity to leave a positive impression and invite further action. Here's how the conclusion and signature of a cover letter should look:

• Summary of Interest: In the conclusion paragraph, summarize your interest in the position and reiterate your enthusiasm for the opportunity to contribute to the organization or school. Emphasize the value you can bring to the role and briefly mention your key qualifications or unique selling points.
• Appreciation and Gratitude: Express appreciation for the reader's time and consideration in reviewing your application. Thank them for the opportunity to be considered for the position and acknowledge any additional materials or documents you have included, such as references or a portfolio.
• Call to Action: Conclude the cover letter with a clear call to action. Indicate your availability for an interview or express your interest in discussing the opportunity further. Encourage the reader to contact you to schedule a meeting or provide any additional information they may require.
• Complimentary Closing: Choose a professional and appropriate complimentary closing to end your cover letter, such as "Sincerely," "Best Regards," or "Thank you." Ensure the closing reflects the overall tone and formality of the letter.
• Signature: Below the complimentary closing, leave space for your handwritten signature. Sign your name in ink using a legible and professional style. If you are submitting a digital or typed cover letter, you can simply type your full name.
• Typed Name: Beneath your signature, type your full name in a clear and readable font. This allows for easy identification and ensures clarity in case the handwritten signature is not clear.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Writing an Information Technology Technician Cover Letter

When crafting a cover letter, it's essential to present yourself in the best possible light to potential employers. However, there are common mistakes that can hinder your chances of making a strong impression. By being aware of these pitfalls and avoiding them, you can ensure that your cover letter effectively highlights your qualifications and stands out from the competition. In this article, we will explore some of the most common mistakes to avoid when writing a cover letter, providing you with valuable insights and practical tips to help you create a compelling and impactful introduction that captures the attention of hiring managers. Whether you're a seasoned professional or just starting your career journey, understanding these mistakes will greatly enhance your chances of success in the job application process. So, let's dive in and discover how to steer clear of these common missteps and create a standout cover letter that gets you noticed by potential employers.

• Avoid making the cover letter too generic and not addressing the specific job requirements or company.
• Avoid focusing too much on technical jargon and not relating it to how it can benefit the company.
• Avoid not highlighting any relevant experience or skills that are directly related to the job.
• Avoid not tailoring the cover letter to match the job description or requirements.
• Avoid not proofreading for grammar or spelling mistakes.

Key Takeaways For an Information Technology Technician Cover Letter

• Strong understanding of IT systems and networks
• Proven experience in troubleshooting and resolving technical issues
• Excellent communication and customer service skills
• Ability to work well independently and in a team environment
• Strong attention to detail and problem-solving abilities

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• Dealing with HMRC
• Tax agent and adviser guidance
• Agent Update: Issue 122
• HM Revenue & Customs

Issue 122 of Agent Update

Published 21 August 2024

© Crown copyright 2024

This publication is licensed under the terms of the Open Government Licence v3.0 except where otherwise stated. To view this licence, visit nationalarchives.gov.uk/doc/open-government-licence/version/3 or write to the Information Policy Team, The National Archives, Kew, London TW9 4DU, or email: [email protected] .

Where we have identified any third party copyright information you will need to obtain permission from the copyright holders concerned.

This publication is available at https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/agent-update-issue-122/issue-122-of-agent-update

Technical updates and reminders

Developments and changes to legislation and allowances relating to UK tax including:

PAYE Settlement Agreement Calculations 2023 to 2024

• Tell HMRC about who is dealing with the estate when someone dies, P1000 Update

Alcohol Duty — New Digital Service

Changes to corporation tax reminders, statements and receipts.

• Basis period reform — reporting profits on a tax year basis
• Supporting your Sole Trader clients as they get started in business

Employer liabilities and payments viewer — ‘Earlier Year Update’ becomes ‘End of tax year adjustment’

Hmrc release updated franked investment income group litigation order customer brief, student and postgraduate loans.

• Research and Development reforms

Borders and Trade

• Goods Vehicle Movement Service: changes to allow the use of an an EORI number starting XI in the ‘Entry in Declarant’s Records’ EIDR field

Making tax Digital

Sign up your clients to making tax digital for income tax, hmrc agent services.

• Make a start on your client’s 2023 to 2024 tax return
• Help to avoid errors in claims for plant and machinery allowances

DIY housebuilders scheme agent online submission reminder

Hmrc confirms changes to uk subsidy reporting thresholds for climate change agreement scheme participants.

• Apply for healthcare cover in the EU, Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway or Switzerland (CA8454)
• Wealthy External Conference summary notes

Authorising a Tax Agent — helpful hints and tips for completing the 64-8 form

Agent online forum and engagement.

Latest updates from the partnership between HMRC and the main agent representative bodies. Including:

• Income Record Viewer — CIS data
• Marriage allowance
• agent forum

If you administer a PAYE Settlement Agreement ( PSA ) on behalf of a client, any tax and National Insurance for the 2023 to 2024 tax year must be paid by 22 October 2024 if paying electronically, or by 19 October 2024 if paying by post. To do this you will need to submit calculations first.

The easiest way is to submit calculations online .This is a service to submit yearly calculations online and will determine the amount of tax and Class 1B National Insurance due for the tax year 2023 to 2024.  

If a payment for PSA is made without submitting calculations, we cannot verify what the payment is for or if it is correct.

To submit calculations, employers or agents will need:

• the employer reference
• the tax year of the PSA calculation — even if it is a nil return
• the type of expenses and benefits — only report those included in the PSA
• the number of employees receiving each expense or benefit, including any employees that earn below the personal tax allowance
• the correct rate of tax for each employee

Once the calculation is processed, HMRC will automatically issue a payslip confirming the amount due which also includes the payment reference number.

An Employers PSA liability and payment will not be available to view on their Business Tax Account. 

Further information is available on GOV.UK, at PAYE settlements , and on our YouTube playlist .

Tell HMRC about who is dealing with the estate when someone dies, P1000 Update 

As a result of improvement suggestions from our agent liaison groups, HMRC has now published form P1000 on GOV.UK. This form allows personal representatives of a deceased person’s estate to proactively engage with HMRC to tell us their details and also details of any agents. HMRC’s Bereavement team will contact the person(s) noted on the P1000 form in dealing with the tax affairs of an individual up to the date of death, and for Income Tax and capital gains of ‘informal’ administration periods. We hope it will help speed up dealing with an estate and will review its use.

Form P1000 this does not replace any other means of notifying HMRC, in particular for Inheritance Tax or any ‘agent handshakes’ required by online services. If the personal representative cannot use the form, they should usually receive a letter within 40 days of using the Tell Us Once service . 

Otherwise, they should call the Bereavement Helpline and clearly say they want the Bereavement Helpline .

Agents should also use this helpline for deceased estates in preference to the Agent Dedicated Line (ADL) to speak to the right advisers first time.

This month we are writing to approved producers of alcoholic products in the UK to tell them about the new digital service we’ll be launching in March 2025 and how to get ready.

The new digital service will simplify and modernise the processes for Alcohol Duty approvals, returns, and payments for UK producers. It will deliver on HMRC’s commitment to offer greater digital options to customers, giving them the digital experience they expect from a modern tax and customs authority.

Using the digital service will make it simpler, quicker, and easier for domestic producers of alcoholic products to account for and pay the duty they owe, across all types of alcoholic products.

HMRC will share further details on the new digital service closer to its launch date, including details on how to access it.

The new digital service is the next stage of the Alcohol Duty Review — which on 1 August 2023 saw us introducing the biggest change to Alcohol Duty in 140 years including:

• new duty rates based on alcohol content (ABV)
• 2 new reliefs Small producer relief and reduced rates for draught products), as well as transitional support for some wine products

If you support an alcoholic products producer, they may speak with you about the letter and the new digital service launch in March 2025.

HMRC will stop sending some paper non-statutory Corporation Tax letters where customers can access the information in their HMRC online accounts or GOV.UK guidance. Agents can access the information in HMRC’s Corporation Tax for Agents online service .

The Corporation Tax process is not changing. This is part of HMRC’s wider drive to help the environment and bring down costs by reducing its use of paper to communicate with customers.

 From September the following Corporation Tax letters will no longer be issued:

• CT205/A return reminder
• CT608 instalment payment reminder
• CT207 interest statement
• CT209 payment receipt

From October we’ll also stop sending the CT603A agent list of issued notices to deliver Company Tax return (customers will still receive the CT603 notice to file).

We’ll also trial no longer sending CT208 reminders before we stop sending them permanently. The trial runs from September until January 2025. We will monitor the effect and stop the trial if we see a negative impact on our customers or process. The letters to be trialled are: 

• CT208 PR1 payment reminder
• CT208 PR2 return and payment reminder
• CT208A PR2 return and payment reminder agent copy

Further guidance is available on GOV.UK at:

• Corporation Tax accounting periods
• Company Tax returns

Basis Period Reform — reporting profits on a tax year basis

All sole trader and partnership businesses must now report their profits on a tax year basis, beginning with the Self Assessment return due by 31 January 2025 (covering the tax year 2023 to 2024).

Any business that previously had a non-tax year accounting period must declare profits from the end of their basis period in 2022 to 2023 up to 5 April 2024, with the additional profit (after overlap relief) being transition profit. The transition profit will be spread by default over 5 years including 2023 to 2024. Accounting periods ending on 31 March will now be treated as equivalent to those ending on 5 April. This also applies to property businesses.

Businesses remain free to choose their accounting date. Any business that continues to have a non-tax year accounting period after 6 April 2024 will need to apportion profits from their accounting periods to the tax year.

We have now launched a full package of online interactive guidance to support completion of the return and working out transition profit for these cases. 

We have provided an online service to ask HMRC what the Overlap Relief figure is according to our records.

We have recently seen a major increase in demand and at present response times are not as quick as we would like, but we are now clearing the backlog of requests. If you have applied and have not heard back, you can check the progress of your request .

Please do not contact us directly as we expect to have cleared the current backlog in the coming weeks.

Help us by only using the online form if it is necessary, as it is not intended to be used to ‘check’ a figure that you already hold and there is no requirement to use the service before filing a return. As an example, we have seen cases where the client started trading within the last 3 years where the overlap figure is known to the agent. Dealing with these cases can slow down our response times for all. 

Customers can find further guidance and support for Basis Period Reform on GOV.UK.

Supporting your sole trader clients as they get started in business 

HMRC has updated one of our guidance pages to make it easier for customers to know what they need to do when setting up as a sole trader.  

They can easily check employment status, understand their obligations, and register for tax.

If you have clients who are starting out on their sole trader business journey, then direct them to our updated guidance on GOV.UK. and help them get their tax right first time.

Set up as a sole trader: step by step .

Feedback was received that we were still using the label ‘Earlier Year Update’ ( EYU ) for adjustments to previous tax years when this ceased to be a valid submission type for tax years from 2020 to 2021.

Year ended 5 April 2018 and earlier — adjustment will be made by submission of EYU only.

Year ended 5 April 2019 — EYU or Full payment submission ( FPS ) will be accepted.

Year ended 5 April 2020 — EYU or FPS will be accepted.

Year ended 5 April 2021 and later years — adjustment will be made by submission of FPS only.

We asked for their preferred label for amendments made via FPS , and we jointly decided on ‘End of tax year adjustment’.

We have now made that change to the online service.

When looking in the online account, you will now see the new terminology where ‘End of tax year adjustments’ have been made for 2020 to 2021 or later years. If you are reviewing 2019 to 2020 or previous years you will see ‘Earlier year update’.

HMRC has recently released an updated version of its customer brief outlining the basis on which it is prepared to settle open Franked Investment Income Group Litigation Order ( FII GLO ) issues.

The FII GLO litigation regards the differing treatment for UK Corporation Tax (CT) of dividends, depending on whether the dividend was paid by a UK resident or non-resident payer. Dividends from UK payers were exempt from CT, but dividends from non-UK payers were chargeable to CT. The legislation which is the subject of this litigation was repealed from 1 July 2009.

The new brief replaces the previous version released in January 2020 and has been updated to reflect the Supreme Court decision and the Upper Tribunal decision .

The updated brief sets out:

• how HMRC intend to allow the utilisation of carried forward Double Taxation Relief credits , as required by the decision
• the Upper tribunal decision , apart from the issues where the Upper Tribunal found against HMRC and HMRC has received permission to appeal those issues to the Court of Appeal

HMRC has shared the customer brief with the agents representing FII GLO claimants that it is aware of. If you are affected by this and have not been contacted, please contact your Customer Compliance Manager if you have one, or email [email protected] .

If you deal with payroll and you receive a student loan or postgraduate loan or both start notices (SL1 or PGL1) from HMRC for your client’s employee, it is important that you check and use the correct:

• loan or plan type on the start notice
• start date shown on the notice

This makes sure that employees do not pay any more or less than they have to.

If the employee’s earnings are:

• below the respective student loan and postgraduate loan thresholds, you should update the employee’s payroll record to show whether they have a student loan or postgraduate loan and file the start notice — you do not need to return this to HMRC
• above the respective student loan and postgraduate loan thresholds, and deductions have not been taken, HMRC will send a generic notification service prompt as a reminder — if deductions still have not started, we may contact you directly

Deductions should continue until HMRC notifies you to stop.

If you have not received a start notice from HMRC, but your employee tells you they have a student loan, ask them which plan or loan type they have. If your employee is unsure about the correct plan or loan type they should be repaying, they can check by logging in to their student loan online account .

You should still update your payroll software to start deducting and check all future start notices you receive from HMRC to make sure the employee is paying the correct amount.

Research and Development ( R&D ) reforms update

As mentioned in previous Agent Updates, for accounting periods beginning on or after 1 April 2024, the Small and medium-sized enterprises ( SMEs ) scheme no longer exists. Businesses will either need to claim the merged Research and Development expenditure credit ( RDEC ) or, if they qualify, the enhanced support for R&D intensive loss-making SMEs .

HMRC has updated the Additional Information Form ( AIF ) to accompany these changes. However, the General Election on 4 July delayed the release of the updated AIF .

HMRC’s intention is to release the updated AIF in September, and we will simultaneously update the accompanying regulations. 

Several pages of the Corporate Intangibles Research and Development ( CIRD ) manual have been updated to reflect the changes which have occurred over the last couple of years, and these will be published in the next few weeks.

Check whether you need to submit a claim notification 

• for many customers with 12 month accounting periods, the time limit for submitting a claim notification will be September
• if your company is making its first claim to R&D , or its first claim for 3 years, you should check now whether you need to submit a claim notification
• if your company is required to notify its claim, but a valid claim notification is not made by the end of the notification period, the company will be prevented from claiming R&D relief for that accounting period

Read the guidance on when to Tell HMRC that you’re planning to claim Research and Development ( R&D ) tax relief by making a claim notification on GOV.UK.

Goods Vehicle Movement Service — changes to allow the use of an an EORI number starting XI in the ‘Entry in Declarant’s Records’ EIDR field

We have recently made changes to the Goods Vehicle Movement Service ( GVMS ).

Businesses should now use an an EORI number starting XI, if they have one, with a valid EIDR authorisation to generate the Goods Movement Reference ( GMR ) number in GVMS when moving goods from Great Britain (England, Scotland and Wales) to Northern Ireland.

If a trader does not make EIDR movements between Great Britain and Northern Ireland using GVMS , they do not need to take any action, as these changes will not affect them.

What is an EIDR movement  

An Entry in declarant’s records ( EIDR ) movement involves declaring goods by entering them into a trader’s own records and sending other details to customs. They can do this if they are authorised to use the EIDR process. You can read more details about making an import declaration in your records .

Using the Trader Support Service

If a trader uses the Trader Support Service ( TSS ), there will be no change to the existing process for them and they do not need to take any further action. The TSS will continue to confirm the EORI number that the trader should use when they submit their pre-movement information. The trader should put that EORI number into GVMS to generate the GMR .

Using GVMS for EIDR movements between Great Britain and Northern Ireland

If a trader has an an EORI number starting XI with an associated EIDR authorisation and they do not use TSS , there are actions they’ll now need to take.

If a trader is creating a GMR they should:

continue to use their an EORI number starting GB number to access and log into the GVMS system

use the an EORI number starting XI linked to a valid EIDR authorisation to generate the GMR number in GVMS for NI EIDR movements

If someone creates GMRs on a trader’s behalf

Please make sure they inform the haulier, or the third party moving the goods for them, of their an EORI number starting XI number associated with the EIDR authorisation to use in GVMS . 

Further help and support

For more information on GVMS , read the guidance on GOV.UK. If you have any questions, please call our helpline on 0300 322 9434 and refer to this letter. 

For support or more information on the Trader Support Service, call the TSS Contact Centre on 0800 060 8888 (0800 060 8988 for Welsh speakers) or visit the Trader Support Service.

Making Tax Digital

From April 2026, Making Tax Digital ( MTD ) for Income Tax will require self employed individuals and landlords to keep digital records and send quarterly updates to HMRC using compatible software.

This change will apply to self employed individuals and landlords with gross income from self-employment and property that totals over £50,000 from April 2026. Those with a total income over £30,000 will have to do this from April 2027.

Self-employed individuals and landlords with qualifying income below £30,000 will also be able to sign up voluntarily so they can benefit from the changes.

What are the benefits to joining now

The MTD testing phase is an opportunity to work with HMRC to help make sure MTD works best for you and your clients.

Joining MTD now will provide you with hands on experience of the new system, strengthen your MTD knowledge and help build your confidence in the new processes. You can then better prepare you and your clients for the future while getting ahead of the changes before they become a legal requirement.

Taking part in our testing programme will also give you access to our dedicated MTD Customer Support Team who will help you and your clients on MTD issues. They can support you with your selected clients wider personal tax affairs (individual PAYE and Self Assessment matters) for the 2024 to 2025 financial year.

How to join MTD testing

You can sign up as many of your eligible clients as you wish for testing in 3 steps:

Read the eligibility criteria and consider which clients can participate. When signing up, you’ll be asked some questions to confirm whether your client is eligible.

Ensure you and your client’s software is compatible with MTD and suits your needs. Before signing up, check available software options on GOV.UK and contact your chosen provider.

Sign up your client  to the testing.

You need to be registered with HMRC for an agent services account ( ASA ) to take part in the testing.

Find out how to create an agent services account .

You will need to use the digital handshake to get authorised by new clients to act on their behalf.

Asking VAT registered customers to assist with MTD testing

During August, HMRC will be emailing approximately 60,000 VAT registered customers whose records show they may be eligible to join our testing phase for Making Tax Digital for Income Tax. This is to invite them to sign up for voluntary testing to help HMRC test the service, and to assist them in getting ready for the change before it becomes a legal requirement.

Some of the customers we are emailing may be your clients so they may contact you about signing up for testing.

Make a start on your client’s 2023 to 2024 tax return 

We’re encouraging agents who have not yet filed their client’s 2023 to 2024 tax returns to do so now. Getting your client’s tax returns out of the way has many benefits , and our online services can help.

These tools have been purposely built for agents and they include:

Self Assessment for agents which covers individuals, businesses, trusts and partnerships. This service allows you to submit your client’s tax return online, view and change their contact details, see their PAYE coding notice and much more

Income Record Viewer ( IRV ) which can help you prepare and check tax returns. The IRV gives you access to your client’s pay, tax, employment history, pension (private and state) and tax codes

You can find more services for agents and check what account to use on GOV.UK.

Help to avoid errors in claims for plant and machinery allowances 

HMRC has published Guidelines for Compliance to help avoid errors in claims for plant and machinery allowances .

These guidelines set out common areas of error in claims. We are sharing this information to help you to get your claims right and avoid unnecessary contact from HMRC.

Guidelines for Compliance offer HMRC’s view on complex, widely misunderstood or novel risks that can occur across tax regimes.

In Agent Update Issue 119 , we announced improvements to the online process allowing agents to claim VAT repayments on behalf of clients, under the VAT DIY Housebuilder Scheme.

This means that since its introduction, agents have been able to submit claims and other supporting information online — allowing HMRC to process client claims more quickly and efficiently than by paper form and post.

Please note that you do not need to use agent services to do this. You can do it using you Government Gateway user ID, but must have a valid 64-8 form that authorises you to deal with us on your client’s behalf.

You can find further guidance about the digital service at:

• VAT refunds for conversions if you’re a DIY housebuilder
• VAT refunds for new builds if you’re a DIY housebuilder

HMRC confirms changes to UK subsidy reporting thresholds for Climate Change Agreement ( CCA ) scheme participants meaning more businesses will be required to report this information. It is required to collect data from Climate Change Agreement scheme participants whose annual tax subsidy benefit is above a defined threshold.

The way HMRC collects information on tax subsidy benefits is changing as well as the reporting thresholds. HMRC are currently finalising the reporting arrangements to enable businesses to submit their subsidy information for calendar year 2023 and will confirm the new process before the end of October 2024.

The threshold for reporting subsidy information for the 2023 calendar year and for future calendar years is £100,000. The threshold of £100,000 is lower than previous years and will mean more UK businesses will be required to report on their annual CCA subsidy benefits if it exceeds this level.

A small number of businesses registered in Northern Ireland, trading in goods or the wholesale electricity market will need to report their annual CCA subsidy benefits under state aid rules, if it exceeds £86,994.  

HMRC expects a significant increase in businesses reporting on CCA subsidies due to the reporting threshold reduction. To manage increased numbers, HMRC is redesigning how the data is collected and processed.  

Businesses will be required to report this information to HMRC digitally using an online form on GOV.UK. A link to the online form and supporting guidance will be sent once the form is available. 

This data is then published on a publicly accessible database showing all subsidy benefits above the reporting thresholds to promote accountability and transparency.  

Further information will be provided in the next Agent update edition to confirm the launch of the data collection exercise for the 1 January 2023 to 31 December 2023 reporting period.  

Apply for healthcare cover in the EU, Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway or Switzerland (CA8454) 

An online form for those who need healthcare cover in an European Economic Area country, Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, or Switzerland is now live.

The application, form CA8454, is for those who need a healthcare entitlement certificate (S1):

• for their dependants and already hold a certificate of coverage (Also known as a PDA1) and S1 for themselves for the same period
• themselves, or their dependants while on maternity, paternity or adoption leave as an employee who is, or will be, resident in one of these countries
• because they’re working and resident in the UK and require healthcare cover for dependants who are resident in one of these countries
• when they already hold an S1, are resident in one of these countries, and only work in the UK but require healthcare cover for dependants

It’s one of several forms HMRC have moved online to make the application process easier for customers.

To ensure that the correct application form is used and based on your circumstances, use the tool National Insurance if you work abroad .

You can access it by:

• Finding the ‘apply for a certificate heading’.
• Selecting ‘start now’.

Wealthy External Conference Summary Notes

HMRC hosted the second Wealthy External Conference in our Croydon regional centre alongside representatives from HMRC’s Mid-Sized Business area. The conference was hosted by Deputy Director Kevin Hubbard (Wealthy) and Assistant Director Darren Boston (Mid-Sized Business). Representatives from professional bodies and agent firms were invited to join HMRC stakeholders to discuss Certainty and Owner Managed Businesses. The minutes from the conference have been published on GOV.UK.

We’d like to share with you some hints and tips for completing the 64-8 form.

To help us process your request quickly and avoid any unnecessary delays you should:

• make sure the latest version of the 64-8 form is used
• not include a covering letter, unless it contains information that is absolutely necessary to process the form — add any essential information to your covering letter, do not write outside the boxes on the form
• make sure the form is typed or the handwriting is easy to read
• not provide any additional information in the form fields other than the requested information — for example in the ‘Agent code’ field only include the correct Self Assessment agent code, consisting of 6 characters 1111XX
• provide the correct agent codes for the relevant tax regimes, for example  PAYE  XX1111

If you want to include any company logos, do so in the white space at the top of the form.

Support for customers who need extra help

We have principles of support for customers who need extra help . These set out our commitment to support customers according to their needs, and underpin the HMRC Charter . 

Find out how to get help and what extra support is available . 

Complain to HMRC

You can complain to HMRC .

To make a complaint to HMRC on behalf of your client you must be appointed as their tax adviser .

Where’s my reply for tax agents

Find out when you can expect to get a reply from HMRC to a query or request you have made.

There is also a dedicated service for tax agents to: 

register you as an agent to use HMRC online services

process an application for authority to act on behalf of a client

You can check the latest updates to HMRC manuals or subscribe to automatic notification of changes. You can also suggest improvements for pages of our manuals by using the feedback option.

You can find online training material and useful resources through:

• the HMRC email updates and webinars for tax agents and advisers page
• our HMRC videos on YouTube

Online learning modules, and live and pre-recorded webinars are available for tax agents and advisers providing you with free help, learning and support on topical subjects.

Agent forum and engagement

Income record viewer — cis data .

Members of the Issues Overview Group have highlighted that agents and professional representative bodies might find it useful to see information on the Construction Industry Scheme ( CIS ) on the Income Record Viewer tool and we agreed to explore this further.  

After consultation with expert colleagues in our digital, security and operational departments we regret to say that we are unable to include CIS information in the Income Record Viewer tool.

There are a variety of reasons why HMRC feels that it is not viable to add CIS information in the Income Record Viewer most of which are rooted in concerns about the security requirements around the data.  

Members concerns have been fed back to the subject matter experts.  

Marriage Allowance 

We have completed our initial analysis of approximately 400 sample cases to better understand why cases are falling out of automation. These cases were reviewed manually, and this has taken some time. Our next action will be to undertake a more detailed analysis to identify the cause of this issue.  

Agent Forum

At the Issues Overview Group meeting on 7 August, members of the Agent Forum provided an update on the current effectiveness of the forum. Members were advised that until recently the way in which the service performed it did not align with the forum’s intended mandate. However, the measures implemented over the last few months, have been successful in stemming the number of posts to the forum. 

Moderation in particular, has enabled the team to filter content that does not meet its core objective. In addition, the team can continue to work collaboratively with the agent community to help identify and resolve widespread, systemic issues. This will allow the team to focus on ensuring that legitimate issues raised are dealt with efficiently. Work to improve the effectiveness of the forum is ongoing and constructive feedback and ideas on how the forum could be improved within its defined parameters are welcomed. 

We are keen to ensure the forum continues to be a collaborative channel for agents and professional bodies to raise systemic and widespread issues.

Contact Information for professional and representative bodies

AAT:  [email protected]

ACCA Jason Piper:  [email protected]

AIA David Potts:  [email protected]

ATT:  [email protected]

CIMA:  [email protected]

CIOT Technical:  [email protected]

CIPP Lora Murphy: [email protected]

CPAA Alison Hale:  [email protected]

IAB:  [email protected]

ICAEW Caroline Miskin:  [email protected]

ICAS Tax Team:  [email protected]

ICB Steven Worrall:  [email protected]

ICPA:  [email protected]

IFA:  [email protected]

VATPG Ruth Corkin:  [email protected]

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