Tax Dispute matters we advise on
Other services our team offer from furlough support errors, criminal investigations, expert witness, mediation, PAYE and more.
Disputes with HMRC are frustrating, time consuming and expensive. Particularly when HMRC become entrenched.
We know this is an unsettling time; our tax disputes experts can guide you through the problem and help you finally resolve the issue.
There is not a one-size fits all approach when it comes to dealing with tax problems, which is why our experts are able to help with a range of issues.
Furlough support errors
Any employer with something to disclose or facing a penalty challenge from HMRC should seek appropriate specialist advice.
The Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme (CJRS) was introduced early in the pandemic to support more than one million businesses.
Billions of pounds was paid to businesses to temporarily furlough employees rather than make them redundant.
While most employers acted faithfully, the potential for abuse saw measures introduced to help HMRC identify and investigate any employer who accidentally or deliberately overclaimed support payments. Thousands of investigations and several arrests have been made to date.
Legislation was introduced to enable HMRC to recover overpaid grants and the associated penalty regime means that not coming forward is automatically deemed to be ‘deliberate and concealed’ behaviour, irrespective of the actual behaviour, which means that a penalty of up to 100% of the overclaimed grant can be levied.
Criminal investigations
HMRC normally investigates cases of tax fraud using civil powers under the Contractual Disclosure Facility.
HMRC reserves the right to pursue a criminal case and prosecute in any case where there is suspected tax evasion.
If this happens, legal representation will be needed from a criminal defence solicitor and we can make introductions if required.
If we are involved early enough in the process, we can work with your legal representative to attempt to bring the investigation back into a civil setting.
If HMRC or the Crown Prosecution Service continue to pursue a criminal investigation, we can review the basis of the tax fraud allegation and make representations if there are areas of dispute.
In certain ongoing disputes with HMRC, the facts of a case might make it one that is suitable for other courses of action.
ADR is a process where an impartial HMRC mediator who has not been involved in the case attempts to assist the parties to work towards resolving a tax dispute outside of the Tribunal or Court.
The parties in dispute have control of the decision whether or not to settle and can work on creating a negotiated agreement without having to refer the matter to the tax tribunal, although that option does remain in the event ADR is unsuccessful.
We can assist with preparations for a tribunal hearing if this is the last remaining option.
HMRC’s Alternative Dispute Resolution, Mediations and tribunals (ADR)
Other bespoke services
Professional practices such as accountancy and law firms commonly provide compliance and advisory services to multiple clients, building a solid relationship with the individuals and businesses requiring assistance. Nonetheless, professional advisors will sometimes need advice about issues outside their usual expertise such as how to deal with tax problems.
We often work with other accountancy firms and solicitors to support their clients through tax investigations and disputes.
Get in touch
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We're here to help
Our experienced and award-winning Tax Resolutions team can help you navigate your case and ensure you meet your obligations.
Book a free consultation
We are professional advisors who specialise in helping our clients with HMRC Disputes, Investigations and Disclosures.
If you would prefer to speak to us, please call our free confidential helpline +44 (0)800 656 9900.