30 April 2012

Revenue sends 12,000 penalty notices in error

Around 12,000 taxpayers have been sent penalty notice letters by HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC) in error, warning them of the new £10 daily fines for failing to file their self assessment tax returns.

However, the taxpayers concerned were originally informed that they no longer needed to fill in a tax return.

A spokesperson for the HMRC said, ‘We can reassure these customers that we know who they are and that this letter is incorrect – they do not owe a penalty’.

The deadline for filing the self assessment tax return online was 2 February. Under HMRC’s new penalty system, individuals who have not filed their return by 1 May are subject to daily penalties.

Further penalties apply for taxpayers who have still not filed their returns after 6 and 12 months.

We can help with all of your tax planning needs, including dealing with your tax returns. Please contact us for further information.

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