With the risk of HMRC investigations on the rise, individuals can protect themselves from unexpected costs with our Fee Protection scheme.
Self-employed individuals and company directors in the UK have always faced the possibility of HMRC scrutinising their tax affairs. But with the long-planned Making Tax Digital (MTD) initiative set to take effect next year, and HMRC’s increasing focus on closing the estimated £35.5 billion annual tax gap, the likelihood of investigation has never been higher.
There are several reasons why taxpayers might undergo formal investigation by HMRC: random selection, late filing, errors requiring correction, or significant changes to a figure – such as a large pension contribution. HMRC’s Connect database also compiles data from a wide range of financial and personal sources, further increasing the risk of scrutiny.
Whether selected at random or flagged through data systems, any formal investigation must be correctly handled – and that requires professional support. On average, HMRC investigations cost £1,000 plus VAT in professional fees, and can be significantly higher; fees that are payable even if your tax affairs are ultimately confirmed to be in order.
With the chances of being investigated increasing, protecting yourself from potentially costly fees has never been more important. Our Fee Protection scheme covers all professional costs (up to £100,000) arising from HMRC investigations:
- Protects self-employed individuals and business directors
- Covers all HMRC investigation-related professional fees up to £100,000
- Removes the risk of unexpected costs as investigations increase
- Provides peace of mind for a fixed annual fee
- Includes investigations relating to tax returns, NI, VAT, PAYE, and P11D
As HMRC sharpens its focus on business directors and the self-employed, the number of individual investigations will undoubtedly rise. Being financially prepared is a prudent step.
To find out more about our Fee Protection scheme, contact us on 020 7731 6163 or email info@warrenerstewart.com
