Tax Investigations

Tax investigations can be daunting and stressful. We understand that you may prefer to have your partner or tax manager present during any detailed discussions and we are very happy to hold meetings in our offices if you prefer.

Our extensive experience and know-how in this area, from 'simple' enquires on PAYE and self-assessment, to complex special Compliance Office investigations will help protect you and your business interests.

Did you know you are 140,000 times more likely to be the subject of a tax investigation than you are of winning the lottery? Over recent years we have seen a much more aggressive approach to investigations and are predicting a marked increase in this trend over the forthcoming years. Investigators no longer need to have a specific reason to investigate your personal or business affairs, yet you are still required to carry the burden of paying for any professional advice, whether or not they find any errors or outstanding tax.

In our experience, the cost of the average personal tax investigation is £3000 or more, rising to £5000 for business investigations and often much more depending on the complexities of your affairs. Even ‘aspect investigations' – that look at a specific part of your affairs only – can cost a considerable amount.

We are able to offer our clients a Fee Protection insurance policy with a nil excess that covers up to £100,000 of professional costs per incident resulting from HM Revenue & Customs' investigations or disputes. These may include full and aspect enquiries, pre-disputes, reviews, compliance checks or interventions.

Companies with a turnover of more than £10 million will need to have a specific rate quoted for cover but whatever type or size of business you are, the cost of cover is very low by comparison to the costs of an investigation. For a small additional premium, businesses can upgrade their cover to include unlimited access to the Business Support Helpline which gives invaluable advice on all matters including employment, health & safety, business law and payroll.

To find out more and to discuss your specific needs with one of our specialist Partners, please contact us