First things first, please note we need your records in by 24th January at the latest to enable us to complete your self assessment and deal with any issues with HMRC.
Here’s some other important updates:
HMRC cuts helpline ahead of SA deadline – what to do next
HMRC cuts helpline ahead of SA deadline – what to do next
If you are one of the many taxpayers still preparing your self-assessment (SA) returns ahead of the upcoming 31st January deadline, you might find yourself grappling with an unexpected challenge this year.
In a desperate attempt to cope with overwhelming demand, HMRC has made the decision to drastically limit the calls to its helpline, especially if calls relate to SA. Leaving taxpayers stranded without adequate support during this crucial period.
The decision applies to individuals and accountants. HMRC claims that in the majority of cases questions can be postponed or resolved through alternative means, or wait until after the busy period to be addressed.
Online support guides
Callers contacting HMRC are directed to online guides, in an effort to provide a quick and efficient response by automating the process. However, the online resources are often inadequate, directing callers to irrelevant or incomplete information.
This can be frustrating and time-consuming for those seeking specific assistance. Additionally, the suggested guidance may not always be as useful as HMRC believes it to be, as it can not cover all possible scenarios or provide the level of clarification that some individuals require.
It is important to be aware that failing to submit your tax return on time can result in a fine of £100. An excuse for a late submission related to HMRC refusing to answer SA support calls, will not be considered a reasonable one.
What to do next
If you find the guidance provided by HMRC to be unhelpful, it is recommended that you still submit your tax return by the deadline of 31st January – completing your tax return to the best of your knowledge.
In case you encounter any difficulties or uncertainties, you can explain your actions in the additional information section of your return. After the 31st of January, the limitations on the helpline will be lifted, allowing you to make any necessary enquiries or amendments to your return.
So, to reiterate, attempt to contact HMRC for assistance and refer to their online resources. If the information is still unclear, proceed to submit your tax return before 31st January – and document any challenges you encountered during the submission process.
If any changes or corrections are required, they can be applied after the deadline, avoiding you being penalised with the £100 fine.
As always, please get in touch if we can be of assistance – we are here to help.
Strike action impact on SA returns
We have learned that approximately 300 Fujitsu staff members who primarily support HMRC’s IT systems will go on strike to protest against a pay offer.
The strike started yesterday, on January 18th, and will continue until February.
Although HMRC is confident that the industrial action will not impact its ability to process Self Assessment tax returns during the busy weeks leading up to the January 31 deadline, we recommend acting quickly to avoid potential late filings caused by system failures at HMRC’s end.
Please note, if you encounter a delay when submitting your tax return online, we advise not to close the page while the software waits for a response from the HMRC network.
Protecting yourself against scammers impersonating HMRC
It has come to our attention that there has been an increase in scam calls purporting to be from HMRC. Fraudsters can employ highly sophisticated tactics to deceive unsuspecting individuals and extract personal information and even bank account access.
To safeguard yourself, it is crucial to be aware and recognise the signs that fraudulent callers deploy. Keep in mind the following red flags.
Identifying red flags
- Unsolicited calls: Be cautious if you receive an unexpected call from individuals claiming to be from HMRC, especially if you have never interacted with them before.
- Demanding personal information: HMRC will never ask for sensitive details such as your bank account number, PIN, or full passwords.
- Requests for immediate payment: Genuine HMRC representatives will never demand instant payment or threaten arrest if you refuse to comply.
- Urgent and threatening tone: Scammers often adopt an aggressive demeanour to intimidate victims into divulging personal information.
Remember, scammers are constantly evolving their tactics. So staying informed is the best way to avoid being taken in by fraudulent HMRC impersonation calls (or any scammers) in order to safeguard your personal information.