Don’t get caught out!!

According to HMRC statistics in 2018/19 it received around 900,000 reports about possible scams involving tax. This is shocking if you consider all the people who do not bother to tell HMRC when they are scammed.

Phone calls:

While HMRC does contact people by phone about their tax, usually when there is overdue tax to pay, you will already be aware you owe money and how much. You will have received a string of demands and statements from HMRC before it resorts to phone calls. So a call out of the blue suggesting you owe money is almost bound to be fake.

Tip: Don't engage in any discussion or provide any information. Hang up immediately and do not return the call on any number you're given as this can trigger charges. If you're concerned that you owe tax, use the contact details provided on GOV.UK web pages to get in touch with HMRC.

Texts:

HMRC will never ask you for personal or financial information by text. Don't respond to text messages or open any links it contains.

Correspondence:

E-mails and letters can- but often don't- appear convincing and include a genuine looking HMRC logo. They will typically include links to tax refund/payment claim web pages.

Tip:

If in any doubt check HMRC's website which contains examples of scams currently doing the rounds. If you decide the document is suspicious, it's up to you whether to report the details to HMRC. There's no obligation but it might help others in the long run.

We would like to wish you all a Happy New Year! Don't hesitate to contact us for a free no obligation meeting to discuss your business needs.