HMRC hides errors to stop taxpayer appeals

clock

An internal HMRC memo sent to a taxpayer in error has suggested the Revenue service is hiding mistakes and concealing vital information from the public.

The document, seen by Money Mail, reveals how despite acknowledging it had made mistakes when dealing with an appeal for leniency, HMRC  concealed the details and demanded thousands of pounds in unpaid income tax. Retired postal manager Ken Williams received the memo after he had appealed for a concession known as ESC A19 - which allows for tax to be written off everything possible has been done to pay the right levy - after being sent a shock demand for £2,003. But HMRC rejected the appeal. It alleged that because Williams had queried his bill, he obviously knew it was wrong. However...

To continue reading this article...

Join Professional Adviser for free

  • Unlimited access to real-time news, industry insights and market intelligence
  • Stay ahead of the curve with spotlights on emerging trends and technologies
  • Receive breaking news stories straight to your inbox in the daily newsletters
  • Make smart business decisions with the latest developments in regulation, investing retirement and protection
  • Members-only access to the editor’s weekly Friday commentary
  • Be the first to hear about our events and awards programmes

Join

 

Already a Professional Adviser member?

Login

More on Tax Planning

IHT rule changes spark adviser-led surge in estate planning and charitable giving

IHT rule changes spark adviser-led surge in estate planning and charitable giving

Upcoming changes already beginning to influence charitable will-writing and estates market

Isabel Baxter
clock 16 June 2025 • 3 min read
Advisers see higher client demand as tax changes and rumours cause confusion

Advisers see higher client demand as tax changes and rumours cause confusion

See opportunity to provide ‘much-needed’ clarity

Isabel Baxter
clock 23 April 2025 • 2 min read
HMRC to raise £110m per year by cutting IHT relief on AIM shares

HMRC to raise £110m per year by cutting IHT relief on AIM shares

Will make gifting a more attractive option to investors

Isabel Baxter
clock 22 April 2025 • 2 min read