Tax Investigations and Enquiries – The Importance of Advisors

With recent crackdowns on tax avoidance (highlighted by media coverage), and the introduction of a number of HMRC task forces, the spectre of tax investigations and enquiries is more apparent than ever.

Qualified tax advisors can help by giving advice on HMRC powers and procedures; disclosures, penalties and negotiating settlements when HMRC undertake investigation proceedings.

Such investigations can involve both business and individuals, including those involving potential allegations of serious fraud and Proceeds of Crime Act implications.

More commonly, HMRC will adopt a civil settlement approach, where experience in preparing relevant disclosure reports and negotiating settlements can be vital in ensuring that the taxpayer is able to settle the problem areas in as efficient and cost-effective manner as possible.

Serious investigations can be traumatic, exerting significant pressure on both business and family life. Having experienced advisors is an essential part of the objective of reaching a satisfactory settlement with as little drama as possible.

Technical Enquiries cover another aspect of possible dispute with HMRC.  They give the ideal opportunity to deal with potentially grey areas in the legislation, to ensure the client is defended robustly.

Despite the claimed ‘simplification’ of tax rules, the volume of tax legislation continues to increase. The 2012 Finance Bill was the largest ever, weighing in at 686 pages. With this ever-increasing pool of rules, it is inevitable that gaps in the intended legislation will occur.

Experience tax advisors are vital to ensure that the taxpayer’s position is represented fully in such situations. Eaves and Co are very experienced and specialise in providing advice on these sorts of tricky areas and would be delighted to hear from anyone with such concerns.