HMRC - Tax return submissions

HMRC generally check all tax returns once before processing them. This allows them to flag any obvious errors or omissions. Tax returns are then processed before HMRC undertakes further checks. HMRC may contact you at this point to get any further information they need. 

Any requests for information from HMRC must be reasonable. They can only ask you for relevant things – and any deadlines they give you have to be reasonable.

HMRC aren’t allowed to ask you for anything you can’t easily get hold of, anything about a pending appeal you’ve made about your tax, anything about your health, journalistic material, anything more than six years old (except in special circumstances), or anything that breaches lawyer-client confidentiality.

• You should always try and resolve any problems with HMRC by talking with the person who has been dealing with you first.
• If this is impossible or has not resolved your issue, you should use Resolver to contact them.
• HMRC operates a tiered complaints system. Complaints will go through two tiers of service.
• If you are still unhappy, you can ask your MP to escalate your complaint to the Parliamentary and Health Ombudsman.

If you believe HMRC has not correctly followed procedure, it's always worthwhile to consider contacting them via Resolver. HMRC may offer compensation for any distress, delay, damage caused, or costs incurred by HMRC (such as the cost of having to hire an accountant).

It's worth knowing that HMRC have the right to take enforcement action to reclaim any debts (under certain conditions).

You should be aware, however, that HMRC field agents have no right of seizure. They might take note of the things you have (your assets), but they can't take any on the spot.

HMRC can level penalties for late payment. It's always worth contacting HMRC if you believe you might have been incorrectly penalised (or if serious circumstances stopped you from paying on time). HMRC will often consider any reasons you might have for late payment.

You should try and correct any mistakes with your tax as soon as possible.

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