Kudos to my chum Elaine Clark who wrote about the "smug arrogance of HMRC" as she says:
"They do get it wrong. Quite a lot in fact."Here is an extract of her article which can be read in full on CheapAccounting.co.uk:
"For many a year I have argued the point that a Director is not obligated by law to file a self assessment tax return.
I’ve argued this point with accountants, on forums, in blogs and with HMRC.
Why?
Well that’s simple … because that is the law.
You only have to complete a tax return if you meet certain conditions.
Being a Director is not one of those conditions.
First Tier Tax Tribunal
And it seems that the “big guns” at the First Tier Tax Tribunal agree.
The case of Mohammed Salem Kadhem and The Commissioners for Her Majesty’s Revenue and Customs examined the case of Mr Kadhem being fined for not filing a self assessment.
Mr Kadhem successfully argued that the fines were not valid as he didn’t need to file a self assessment for the year in question.
The Tribunal agreed with him.
HMRC got it wrong......
The best advice that I can give to anyone is not to assume that HMRC are right when the brown envelope falls on the doormat. They do get it wrong. Quite a lot in fact.
Always check their calculation, fines and penalties. Check that they have applied to law correctly."
Tax does have to be taxing.
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Arrogant smug corrupt bastards. Challenge everything they say. Challenge every decision they make. They are worthy of no respect.
ReplyDeleteYes.But that is too polite.Sewerage.
DeleteYes, let company directors do what they like. No need to file a Self Assessment return. No risks can come from that..................
DeleteWhen I sent the tax office a cheque 6 months ago (signed/dated/reference etc on rear) some brainless incompetent decided to send it back to my bank. I have no idea WTF they were thinking. I asked for explanation, months later I am still waiting. I will not pay again until they offer a little polite service (apology, explanation or even a response would be good) and if they try to charge me interest they can stick that idea up where the sun don't shine. Incompetent losers.
ReplyDeleteHMRC are indeed a smug and arrogant organisation. They have nothing to be smug or arrogant about, and you can mitigate the damage they can cause to you as a taxpayer by following a few simple rules:-
ReplyDelete1. Get an accountant if you can afford one
2. If you can't afford an accountant make sure you fully use all available free resources for information (mostly online) and never rely on simply the .gov.uk website or HMRC helpline.
3. Record all telephone conversations with them.
4. Never meet with them alone, take someone with you. Record the conversation.
5. If you owe money write to them with a proposal, sending the letter by recorded delivery as proof because they do tell lies.
6. If this mob turn up at your home address demanding money NEVER allow them into the house as they can take control of your goods and assets once inside. Politely tell them that you will be in contact (telephone/letter) and close the door. Do not further engage with them.
7. If they are treating you unfairly there is normally little point in pursuing a complaint directly with them, write to your MP.