You cannot predict when a status challenge will come, but you can prepare for it
Whether you engage individuals on a self employed basis, or are considering doing so, it is your responsibility to ensure you treat the engagement correctly.
HMRC employment status challenges are commonplace. It is therefore important that every business engaging self employed individuals, or considering doing so, is confident in the employment status of each individual it engages with.
Potential risks in this area not only come from HMRC but also from the workers. Ensuring your business has a robust defence in place should either of these events occur is an investment worth making when compared to the potential liability the business could face if challenged.
With our wealth of experience and expertise in this area, whether you require a contract review, a more detailed review of your operations, contract drafting, or assistance with an HMRC enquiry, our experts can provide you with the support you need.
We have extensive experience in dealing with HMRC enquiries from start to finish: corresponding with HMRC, to Statutory Review, Alternative Dispute resolution (ADR) and representation in the Tax Tribunals. Meaning you will not need to be referred to another third party should the enquiry reach these stages.
We work on fixed fees, agreed in advance, so that you have certainty of the costs involved at each stage.
Are you an Accountant?
Concerned about a client’s engagement of workers, or want to support them in mitigating the risk of a challenge? Find out more about Employment Status – Accountant Support
Our contract review will provide you with a detailed report as to why we believe the contract is a contract for services or a contract of service (employment).
Ensure both parties are clear on the terms of engagement by putting written contracts in place.
We can provide a detailed review of your paperwork and business operations to ensure you have a robust defence should you be faced with an employment status challenge. If you have any queries about our services, or want to discuss anything with us, please do not hesitate to contact us.
Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) is a mediation process open to taxpayers that can be used to facilitate the settlement of a tax dispute where no progress is being made. This might be due to a communication breakdown with HMRC or, as neither side is willing to withdraw from its arguments. We have first-hand experience of ADR and can advise you whether it may be of benefit to your case.
HMRC’s powers to request information and documentation have increased in recent years. However, HMRC often asks for information it is not statutorily entitled to. Ensure HMRC is acting within its statutory powers before any action is taken. Know your compliance obligations – HMRC has powers to raise penalties for late filing, late payment and inaccuracies.
We have a wealth of experience defending taxpayers against HMRC investigations. Whether you have a compliance check, enquiry, or penalty notice, we can provide you or your accountant with a second opinion, or take over the investigation.
Working with you, we specialise in handling technical (direct) tax and penalty investigations, so why not contact us to discuss your options and see how we can help.
Should you require more information about our services, or have a particular tax query you are seeking advice on, get in touch today! Simply fill in the form below and a member of our team will be in touch.
Alternatively, give us a call 01296 488810.
Construction Industry