Tax investigations can be intimidating and are often avoidable, if expert advice is sought early, from your accountant. HW have dealt with many clients who have experienced differing levels of investigations, ranging from Income Tax and VAT, through to PAYE investigations.

Regardless of the Government body that instigates the investigation, early intervention from your accountant can reduce, or even eliminate the threat of a full investigation from occurring.

Many investigations begin life as general enquiries from the government body in question. If these enqiries are not dealt with promptly and accurately, it is possible that a full investigation will begin soon after.

In some cases, it is impossible to avoid an investigation, as the HM Revenue and Customs do perform general visits which require certain records and evidence to back up any claims you have made. These are not full investigations, and should be treated with caution, with a view to eliminating the risk of a full investigation occurring.

In these circumstances, it is advisable to contact your accountant immediately, who should be able to provide help and support, and confirm which records to supply to the Revenue or Customs as evidence.

For help and further advice on any aspect of enquiries or investigations into any business activity, please contact your local HW office .