Enquiries and Dispute Resolution

HMRC investigations and enquiries into individuals and their businesses are stressful, time consuming and costly.

HMRC has publicly stated that they are under instruction to increase collection of unpaid taxes and have invested significant resources to achieve this aim.

While the press focuses on the tax strategies of larger multi-national corporations, HMRC has much wider targets and whatever the size or type of business or the amount of personal finances, it can raise enquiries to ensure tax compliance.

HMRC has the power to raise an investigation or enquiry for a number of reasons. It is therefore important to seek professional advice as quickly as possible to ensure that the matter is brought to a swift conclusion and a favourable outcome is obtained.

enquiries

There are a number of different levels of HMRC enquires:

Random – These are enquiries generated by HMRC’s computer system;

● Local office enquiries – these tend to be aimed at specific entries on an individual’s or company’s tax returns or accounts;

● Taskforce review of what HMRC regard as a “high risk” industry. These tend to focus on cash trades;

● Residence enquiries – HMRC are focusing more and more on individuals who claim to have left the UK;

● Tax Avoidance arrangements – sometimes referred to as Code of Practice 8 or Civil cases. The vast majority have been rendered ineffective and TFO Tax has considerable experience in dealing with HMRC settlement arrangements on behalf of investors;

● Offshore assets – there has been much made of HMRC’s Offshore Disclosure opportunities that encouraged taxpayers to make good any tax on hidden offshore assets in return for a much reduced penalty; and

Criminal Investigations – sometimes referred to as Code of Practice 9.

Want to find out more?

We’d be happy to discuss all of the options available to you.