HMRC has launched a new online tool to help businesses and individuals to understand its compliance checks.
Its free Interactive Compliance Guidance tool provides information and support about compliance checks and is available on the Government website.
It also helps customers to understand why HMRC has requested specific information or documents; how to request extra support due to health or personal circumstances; how to appoint someone to act on your behalf; what to do if you disagree with a decision made by HMRC; and how to pay a tax assessment or penalty.
“When unrepresented customers have a tax compliance problem, it can be difficult for them to find the help they need,” said Joanne Walker, Low Incomes Tax Reform Group (LITRG) technical officer and Customer Experience Advisory Group (CEAG) member.
“This new interactive tool from HMRC makes compliance guidance readily accessible in one place, and easier for people to find the information that is relevant to them. The links to the extra support available will be especially valuable for the most vulnerable customers.
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“Along with other stakeholders, I have commented on and tested the interactive guidance tool at various stages and a lot of work has been put into its development. It clearly sets out the topics, uses an easy-to-understand question and answer format, provides clear guidance videos, step-by-step explanations, and links to other relevant guidance.
“Feedback from multiple stakeholders and customers should ensure it is responsive and easy to use.”
Penny Ciniewicz, HMRC director general for customer compliance, added: “We know that compliance checks can be daunting and we are always looking for ways to improve our support for customers.”
This is one of several interactive tools that HMRC has launched, including the ‘VAT Registration Estimator’, which enables any business to see what registering for VAT could mean, as well as linking to further information about the registration process.