Careful tax advice where the right answer matters
HMRC investigation work should not be approached as a negotiation based on fear, or as a simple exercise in accepting whatever HMRC asks for. Each case has its own facts, documents, tax rules and merits. Our role is to help establish the correct tax position and present it properly.
Pay the correct tax, not simply what is demanded
HMRC has important powers, but those powers still operate within tax law, evidence and procedure. A taxpayer should not ignore HMRC, but equally should not accept an assessment, penalty or conclusion without checking whether it is correct. We approach cases by identifying the legal basis, testing the figures and considering whether the evidence supports HMRC’s position.
We do not promise outcomes
Investigation work depends on the documents, facts and conduct involved. We give practical advice based on what can be evidenced, not unrealistic assurances.
We do not create artificial positions
If tax is due, it should be calculated properly and disclosed correctly. The focus is accuracy, mitigation where available and controlled communication.
We challenge where there is a proper basis
If HMRC’s figures, assumptions, penalty behaviour or time limits appear wrong, those points should be considered carefully and raised professionally.
A technical, evidence-led approach to HMRC matters
HMRC enquiries can involve tax law, accounting records, behaviour, disclosure quality, penalties, time limits and appeal rights. A proper response needs structure rather than guesswork.
We identify the type of HMRC issue first
A compliance check, nudge letter, Schedule 36 notice, COP8, COP9, disclosure or penalty appeal each requires a different approach.
We check the figures before responding
The tax position should be calculated and tested before explanations are sent. This helps avoid inconsistency and unnecessary admissions.
We consider behaviour and mitigation
Penalties often depend on care, disclosure quality, cooperation and whether the matter was prompted. These points should be evidenced properly.
We avoid vague or emotional replies
HMRC correspondence should be factual, complete where necessary and limited to the issues that need to be addressed.
We consider powers, deadlines and rights
Some requests can be challenged, some deadlines can be managed, and some decisions may be reviewed or appealed depending on the facts.
We keep the case proportionate
Not every HMRC issue is fraud, and not every disagreement requires escalation. The response should fit the level of risk.
We are neither dismissive of HMRC nor intimidated by HMRC
The right position is usually found between two mistakes: ignoring HMRC risk on one side, and accepting unsupported conclusions on the other.
Where tax is due
We help calculate it accurately, consider the correct disclosure route, organise supporting records and deal with penalty exposure in a controlled way.
Where HMRC may be wrong
We consider whether HMRC’s assumptions, assessments, penalty decisions, information requests or time limits can be challenged on proper grounds.
A structured process before any response is sent
In sensitive HMRC matters, the first response can shape the direction of the case. We slow the process down enough to understand the issue properly.
Read the HMRC letter
We identify the tax type, years, deadline, legal basis and whether the matter is routine, formal or serious.
Review the records
We check returns, accounts, bank records, invoices, rental schedules, foreign income records or other relevant evidence.
Assess the position
We consider tax due, explanations, weaknesses, penalties, disclosure options, HMRC powers and possible appeal rights.
Prepare the response
We help prepare a factual, structured and proportionate response based on what can be supported.
Good tax advice depends on reliable records
A client’s explanation is important, but HMRC will usually expect supporting evidence. We place importance on documents, timelines, calculations and consistency because those points often affect tax, penalties and settlement discussions.
Tax returns and computations
Filed returns, schedules, amendments, working papers and calculations.
Accounts and bookkeeping
Business records, VAT records, PAYE reports, CIS returns and reconciliations.
Bank and transaction records
Statements, transfers, source of funds evidence and supporting documents.
Correspondence and timelines
HMRC letters, adviser notes, contracts, explanations and event chronology.
Need a careful review of an HMRC issue?
Send us the HMRC letter, deadline and a short summary of the background. We will consider the issue before advising on the next step.