Skip links

HMRC Tax Investigations

Limited Offer

Free Dedicated Online Portal

Excellent Trustpilot   4.8 Star Reviews

Get in Touch
Harkia Personal Income Tax

Our Accreditations & Certifications

Harkia Accountants Xero Accredited Advisors

Harkia Chartered Certified Accountants -ACCA Firm

Harkia Chartered Accountants -ICAEW regulated firm

Harkia_Accountants_Quickbooks_advisor

Businesses, and Individuals

Get Expert Assistance On Your HMRC Tax Investigation

We are not just HMRC Tax Investigation Accountants; we will also be your Tax advisors throughout the HMRC investigation.

Regular Updates throughout your tax investigations*

Your Own Dedicated Chartered Accountant

Contact us
Exclusive

Accounts

Payroll

VAT Returns

New

Corporation Tax Returns

4.8 Rating

5.0 Rating

4.9 Rating

Do you know HMRC is more lenient when you make an un-prompted HMRC disclosure? No. Ask Us.

Navigating HMRC Tax Investigations: A Guide to Understanding and Protecting Your Finances

Hello and Welcome:

In this article, we will discover the triggers that can prompt an investigation, outline the procedure for tax investigations, shed light on the difference between “prompted” and “unprompted” HMRC enquiries, delve into HMRC COP9, discuss criminal investigations, penalties, and charges, and emphasize the importance of hiring reputable tax advisors like Harkia. So, let’s dive in!

1. What Triggers HMRC Tax Investigations:

Understanding what might trigger an HMRC tax investigation is essential for individuals and businesses alike. While HMRC uses various methods to select cases for investigation, some common triggers include:– Inconsistencies or discrepancies in tax returns or financial records.– Reporting significant changes in income, expenditure, or deductions.– Whistleblower reports or tip-offs about possible tax evasion.– Random selection as part of HMRC’s risk assessment procedures.– Participation in high-risk sectors or industries prone to tax evasion.

2. Procedure for Tax Investigation:

If you find yourself facing an HMRC tax investigation, it’s crucial to understand the process. Typically, an investigation follows these broad steps:– Opening: HMRC will notify you in writing, stating the reason for the investigation and any specific areas of focus.– Gathering Information: HMRC will request relevant documents and records, such as bank statements, expense receipts, and tax returns.– Interviews: You may be required to attend interviews to provide explanations and clarify any discrepancies.– Analysis: HMRC will meticulously review the information gathered to assess your tax position accurately.– Conclusion: Once the investigation concludes, HMRC will present its findings, outlining any adjustments or penalties.

3. Prompted vs. Unprompted HMRC Enquiries:

It’s vital to understand the distinction between “prompted” and “unprompted” HMRC enquiries. A prompted enquiry occurs when HMRC identifies discrepancies or receives information suggesting potential tax evasion. On the other hand, an unprompted enquiry arises when individuals or businesses voluntarily disclose errors or omissions in their tax returns. Prompted enquiries often attract greater scrutiny, while unprompted enquiries typically yield more lenient treatment.

Fees

Depending on your circumstances, we will first evaluate your situation, and then provide you with a competitive quote. We work on fixed fees which gives confidence to tax payers.

Over the years, we pride ourselves on having successfully completed and negotiated the tax liabilities with HMRC that are acceptable to taxpayers without going to a criminal investigation. Read our testimonials on Trustpilot.

Please leave your details down below and see the Harkia difference.

Contact us

Free Harkia Online Portal

Harkia Login
Harkia-accounting-app

Need A Tax Advisor who saves you £££s in your tax investigations?

Be Right the First Time, It Saves the Cost.

4. Understanding HMRC COP9:

HMRC Code of Practice 9 (COP9) is a valuable tool for individuals who wish to disclose tax irregularities proactively. Under COP9, individuals can make a voluntary disclosure of their tax affairs, thus avoiding criminal prosecution. It is important to seek professional advice from tax advisors like Harkia when contemplating a disclosure under COP9, as the process can be complex and requires careful handling.

5. Criminal Investigations by HMRC:

In certain cases, HMRC may initiate a criminal investigation when it suspects deliberate and serious tax evasion. Criminal investigations typically involve more extensive inquiries, interviews under caution, and potential prosecution. It is essential to cooperate fully with HMRC during such investigations and seek legal advice promptly.

6. Penalties and Other Charges:

HMRC has the authority to impose penalties and additional charges for tax evasion or errors. The severity of penalties varies depending on factors such as the significance of the offense, cooperation during the investigation, and whether the disclosure was prompted or unprompted. Penalties can include financial sanctions, interest on unpaid taxes, and in extreme cases, criminal prosecution.

7. The Importance of Hiring Good Tax Advisors:

Navigating HMRC tax investigations can be daunting, especially without expert guidance. Hiring reputable tax advisors like Harkia can provide numerous benefits:In-depth knowledge and experience in dealing with HMRC investigations.– Assistance in understanding and complying with complex tax regulations.– Expertise in preparing accurate and comprehensive disclosure reports, if necessary.– Effective communication with HMRC on your behalf, ensuring your rights are protected.– Minimising the risk of errors and omissions that could trigger further investigations or penalties.

8. Cost-Effectiveness of Hiring Tax Advisors:

While the idea of facing an HMRC investigation may tempt some to handle it independently, hiring a tax advisor, such as Harkia, can be more cost-effective in the long run. Consider the potential consequences of mishandling an investigation, including additional penalties, legal fees, and the loss of valuable time and resources. By engaging professional help from the outset, you can mitigate risks, secure the best possible outcome, and focus on your core activities without unnecessary distractions.

Finally:

HMRC tax investigations can be complex and traumatic, but with the right knowledge and support, you can navigate them successfully. By understanding the triggers, procedures, penalties, and benefits of hiring reputable tax advisors like Harkia, you can protect your money and ensure compliance with tax regulations. Remember, seeking professional advice early on is the smartest decision you can make when faced with an HMRC tax investigation.

Xero . Quick Books . Kashflow

Online Software

3. The Harkia Difference:

3.1 Industry-Specific Focus:

What sets Harkia apart from other accountants is their specialisation in catering to the unique needs of recruitment agencies. With our deep understanding of the recruitment industry’s challenges, we provide tailored solutions that address compliance issues specific to recruiters, offering a competitive edge.

3.2 Proactive Approach:

Harkia takes a proactive approach to accounting services, going beyond mere compliance. Our chartered accountants actively engage with recruitment agencies, identifying potential risks and opportunities, and providing strategic advice to drive profitability. By partnering with Harkia, agencies gain a trusted advisor who helps them navigate the financial complexities of the recruitment industry.

3.3 Technology-Driven Solutions:

Harkia embraces technology to streamline accounting processes and improve efficiency. We leverage cutting-edge software and cloud-based solutions to automate tasks, reduce manual errors, and enhance data security. By harnessing these tools, agencies can focus more on core business operations. At the same time, Harkia takes care of the intricate financial aspects.

Finally:

For recruitment agencies in the UK, partnering with the right accountant is crucial to overcome compliance challenges and drive profitability. Harkia Chartered Accountants offers specialised accounting services tailored to the unique needs of recruiters. With their expertise in legal compliance, tax legislation, and financial management, Harkia helps agencies navigate the complex landscape, ensuring adherence to regulations while maximising profitability. By choosing Harkia, recruitment agencies gain a trusted partner committed to their success and equipped with the knowledge and tools to set them apart from the competition. Leave your details and one of our teams with you to get started with us.

Why us.

We are committed to providing our clients with exceptional service, and we go the extra mile to ensure that our clients are satisfied. We take the time to understand our client’s needs and provide tailored solutions that meet their unique requirements.

Chartered Accountants

Licensed by world’s top accountancy bodies. ICAEW & ACCA firm.

Expert Staff

For Accounts production – VAT – Tax Returns – Tax Advisory

Advisory

Tax and Business advisory to save Tax and future planning.

Deadline Management

Our effective system ensures that none of your deadlines are missed thus avoiding penalties and stress.

Hassle-Free accounts & Tax returns.

Be up to date & advised with us. Run your business, don’t let it run you.

No! we make it easy for you and take care of the whole process, while you sit back and relax.

We understand the challenges faced by new businesses. Our support and advisory calms the business owners & educates them on the process ahead.

We are advanced certified for the most popular online cloud platforms, including Xero and Quick books. We have many other tools to improve business processes for our clients.

Corporation tax services in London

Get Started today!

1. Submit Enquiry

Send us your query via email, phone or our contact form

2. Appointment

We get in touch and provide you a tailored quote.

3. Engagement Letter

You sign our terms and conditions after your quote.

4. Services Activate

We activate your services and set you up on our system.

Contact us

Contact us

Leave your details by completing our contact form.

Contact form

Documents & Information

We will be in touch for further information

info@harkia.com

Submission

Once all documents approved and signed, we submit it to HMRC & CH

0208 558 6999
What we achieved

We have helped clients across industries & services

Because of our years of experience and industry knowledge.

2000+
Clients
27+
Service Lines
98%
Positive Feedback
2012
Since 2012

Contact us

Harkia Accountants London

    This website uses cookies to improve your web experience.