The latest report into HMRC performance is bleak reading. The number of taxpayers with a complex tax issue is increasing, yet it has become more difficult to get through to an adviser on a helpline.
Businesses face similar issues, with a particular complaint being the delay in obtaining a VAT registration number.
There are some steps that taxpayers can take to mitigate the problems:
- Don’t leave tax matters until the last moment. For example, making a start on the annual tax return in the summer will leave plenty of time to deal with unknowns.
- Explore what additional resources are available. For example, it may be worthwhile buying tax return software. Quite a few things can be done online using a personal tax account or the HMRC app.
Those who do not currently use an accountant should look at the value in employing one – even if it’s just to get advice on a one-off matter.
