05-Sep-2011
HMRC have announced a new helpline - 0845 366 1207- to assist businesses and individuals adversely affected by the recent civil disorder. According to the press release:
‘The dedicated Civil Disorder helpline is available to provide comprehensive advice and deal sympathetically with problems currently faced by businesses and individuals. In particular, HMRC will:
agree payment schedules with those who are unable to pay their tax bills due to short-term financial difficulties; and
discuss practical solutions where businesses and individuals cannot meet their other obligations to HMRC – for instance, their records have been lost or destroyed in the disturbances.’
‘In these circumstances, and whenever possible, HMRC will review any penalties imposed and withhold additional surcharges that would normally be triggered by missed deadlines. ‘In short, if you want to talk about how the disorder has affected you in relation to the tax system (including tax credits), please contact HMRC – we are here to help. There are a range of existing reliefs available and HMRC’s trained advisors will be happy to help.’
Please do get in touch if you would like further advice.