HMRC claim that compliance checks are normally triggered when there appears to be an error on your tax return. It could be that if you are a company, there is a large VAT claim. If only a small amount of tax is declared by a business with a very high turnover then this could also trigger a tax investigation. There are other things that could also lead to an HMRC Investigation. These include a tip-off to HMRC by an ex-business partner, friend or neighbour, your business receives a large amount of cash as payment, or you experience a large drop in income or a dramatic increase in costs.
Tax Investigation Advisors
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Why Gerald Edelman?
Our tax investigation accountants have substantial experience managing all types of tax audits, from aspect enquiries and random checks to full investigations. We work closely with limited companies, sole traders and PLCs to keep their accounts in good order and give no reason for HMRC to flag up unusual activity.
We understand the stress that naturally comes with the prospect of an investigation, particularly Section 9A, COP8 and COP9 notices. Our tax advisors can help restore your peace of mind and allow you to focus on running your business. When it comes to minimising risks and resolving discrepancies, there’s no substitute for expert knowledge and careful negotiation – and that’s where Gerald Edelman can be an invaluable ally for you.
Click the ‘Contact’ button above to discuss your situation with one of our tax investigation advisors, or discover more about the services we provide below.
How can we help?
Tax investigation
For anyone, the knowledge that you are facing a tax investigation is frightening. Accepting and facing an investigation head-on is the best way to deal with the situation. It’s worth taking specialist advice on how to respond to requests from HMRC for information and documentation.
We can help with tax investigations by preparing and presenting information in the correct formats, communicating with HMRC, attending meetings with HMRC on your behalf, and more.
We have dealt with many individuals and companies who have experienced different forms of tax investigations, including income tax, corporation tax, VAT, PAYE, and others.
Offshore assets and foreign income
We have significant experience in assisting clients who are either subject of an on-going HMRC tax investigation in relation to undisclosed offshore income, assets and/or gains or wish to make a voluntary disclosure.
We can liaise with HMRC to resolve matters amicably and quickly as possible while keeping you fully informed of progress throughout as well as ensuring potential penalties are mitigated as practically possible.
What happens next?
Whatever the circumstances, if you’re facing any form of tax investigation then seeking the support of an experienced accountant should be your first course of action.
Led by Amal Shah, our team has the specialist experience and knowledge of dealing with HMRC to negotiate settlements on your behalf and reach a quick resolution. We’re always on hand to address any questions or concerns you may have, always with client confidentiality in mind.
We’d be happy to arrange a free initial consultation with you over the phone, video call or at our Cornhill office in the City of London – simply fill in the enquiry form above or contact us on +44 (0)20 7299 1400 to speak to one of our tax investigation accountants.
Frequently Asked Questions
HMRC will investigate further back the more serious they think a case could be. If they suspect deliberate tax evasion, they can investigate as far back as 20 years. More commonly, investigations into careless tax returns can go back 6 years and investigations into innocent errors can go back up to 4 years.
If you are an existing client, we offer tax investigation insurance which would cover professional fees should you be subject to a tax investigation.
Exactly how long a tax investigation will take depends on the scope of HMRC’s investigation and the volume of paperwork involved. It could take a few months or even up to a year. HMRC could delay your tax investigation further by asking you for additional information. However, depending on the nature of the case, there are various ways that an experienced tax lawyer can reduce the amount of time a tax investigation needs to take.
