HMRC launches online help for tax compliance checks

HMRC has launched a new Interactive Compliance Guidance tool to help guide both businesses and individuals through tax compliance checks.

The tool, accessible through the government website, brings together existing guidance in one place and helps customers understand:

• HMRC compliance checks
• why HMRC has requested specific information or documents
• how to request extra support due to health or personal circumstances
• how to appoint someone to act on your behalf
• what to do if you disagree with a decision made by HMRC
• how to pay a tax assessment or penalty.

Joanne Walker, Low Incomes Tax Reform Group (LITRG) Technical Officer and Customer Experience Advisory Group member, said:

“When unrepresented customers have a tax compliance problem, it can be difficult for them to find the help they need. This new interactive tool from HMRC makes compliance guidance readily accessible in one place, and easier for people to find the information that is relevant to them. The links to the extra support available will be especially valuable for the most vulnerable customers.

“Along with other stakeholders, I have commented on and tested the interactive guidance tool at various stages and a lot of work has been put into its development. It clearly sets out the topics, uses an easy-to-understand question and answer format, provides clear guidance videos, step-by-step explanations, and links to other relevant guidance.

“Feedback from multiple stakeholders and customers should ensure it is responsive and easy to use.“

Penny Ciniewicz, HMRC’s Director General for Customer Compliance, said:

“We know that compliance checks can be daunting and we are always looking for ways to improve our support for customers.“

The Interactive Compliance Guidance tool is the latest online tool launched by HMRC to support taxpayers, which also include the ‘VAT Registration Estimator’ which enables any business to see what registering for VAT could mean, as well as linking to further information about the registration process.

The guidance and interactive tools are free to use, available directly from GOV.UK and are for information purposes only.

Users will not be registered for any taxes as a result of using the guidance and HMRC will not collect or store any information about the user.