HMRC have increased their investigations in this area and many employers are facing obtrusive and demanding challenges to their treatment of benefits and pay for staff and directors alike. Where a business engages others to provide services this will often lead to a challenge of their ‘tax status’; are the employed or self employed?

Any Investigation must be managed correctly; including those into payroll, benefits and worker’s status. A thorough understanding of HMRC’s processes, information powers, technical issues and the interaction with penalty mitigation is essential. Properly managed there are opportunities to obtain a speedier resolution and significant reductions in penalties.

This type of investigation will often accompany an investigation into the tax affairs of your business or company. In a status dispute HMRC will often suggest that the workers are employees; which could result in your business facing a substantial and unexpected bill.

We have considerable experience in dealing with these matters both from within the Revenue and from the Profession. You can be assured that all of this experience is working for you. We can manage the investigation on your behalf; reducing the need for you to be interviewed by HMRC officers as much as possible and controlling the flow of information and documents. We remain completely objective throughout the entire process; as will our advice and wherever applicable our specialists will present a robust technical defence of your position.

You will be informed and consulted at every stage. Any disclosures and any settlement proposals will be discussed and agreed with you before submission. Our specialist knowledge and experience can also help us to achieve the best possible financial outcome on your behalf and as quickly as possible.