For some, kicking the can into the long grass might be even more preferable. Either way, when the time actually comes to resolving the matter, it will almost certainly be more expensive. And perhaps all you have had in between times is depression and sleepless nights.
Are you resolving matters?
When resolving matters, HMRC are looking for their questions to be answered satisfactorily. But are they the right questions? Are they the same basic question simply being asked repeatedly in a slightly different way? To whose satisfaction?
Only when you have asked your questions can you be sure of resolving matters.
Why is HMRC challenging you?
Perhaps a simple question to ask – but one that is often vital when a particular matter has gone on and on and on for what seems like forever. Can you remember how it all started? Do you know what is still unanswered?
What will satisfy HMRC?
Money and/or a satisfactory explanation.
But you have given HMRC all the answers – haven’t you? Doesn’t that suggest that perhaps either HMRC does not accept your answer or perhaps one side or the other isn’t asking the right question?
Is the time for playing ping pong by letter over?
They do say its good to talk. During the pandemic, face to face meetings were limited to video calls by Teams at best – that is if they happened at all. You cannot always predict what the next question may be let alone the answer. But in a face to face meeting, a lot of ground can be covered and a lot of questions answered. However, meetings with HMRC need to be prepared for.
Has your investigation lost its way?
Sometimes a fresh pair of eyes or looking at matters from a different perspective is what is required.
If you are looking for a second opinion or an understanding of why HMRC are doing what they are doing, please give me a call.
The initial consultation is free. The consultation can take 2 hours – reflecting the long journey you may have already had.