Why Wait for HMRC to Come After You?
At Wingate Accountants, we believe that taking a proactive approach to your tax affairs is always the best strategy. If you have any concerns about your tax compliance, it is far better to voluntarily disclose any irregularities to HMRC rather than wait for them to open a tax investigation.
In serious cases, a voluntary disclosure can mean the difference between financial penalties and a full tax investigation—possibly even criminal prosecution. HMRC offers reduced financial penalties for unprompted disclosures and often looks more favourably on taxpayers who come forward voluntarily. In some cases, they may even waive penalties entirely.
Once you have made a full disclosure, you can have peace of mind knowing that you have resolved any potential issues and can avoid the stress of an unexpected HMRC investigation.
How Wingate Accountants Can Help
With extensive experience in handling voluntary disclosures, Wingate Accountants can:
Review your circumstances and ensure your disclosure is presented to HMRC in the best possible light.
Minimise your tax exposure and work towards a swift resolution.
Liaise with HMRC on your behalf using our expertise and contacts within HMRC.
If you are considering making a voluntary disclosure, contact us for a free, confidential, and no-obligation discussion.
HMRC Compliance Checks
Overview
HMRC regularly conducts compliance checks on individuals, sole traders, partnerships, and companies. They use extensive data sources to assess tax returns and may open an inquiry if they suspect undeclared income or overstated expenses.
A compliance check typically involves HMRC:
✔ Requesting financial records and documentation.
✔ Visiting business premises to review records and ask questions.
✔ Expanding the review into a full tax investigation if significant discrepancies are found.
HMRC has strict powers when conducting compliance checks, but there are also legal limits to what they can request.
How Wingate Accountants Can Help
✔ We act as your tax adviser during HMRC compliance checks.
✔ We ensure HMRC does not exceed its statutory powers.
✔ We handle all communication with HMRC, preventing unnecessary disclosures.
If HMRC has contacted you about a compliance check, get in touch for a free and confidential consultation.
HMRC Code of Practice 9 (COP9) – Contractual Disclosure Facility (CDF)
Serious Tax Investigations
If HMRC suspects tax fraud or tax evasion, they may open an investigation under Code of Practice 9 (COP9). This offers the taxpayer the option to make a full disclosure in exchange for immunity from prosecution.
If you receive a COP9 letter from HMRC, you have two options:
✔ Admit to tax fraud and fully disclose all irregularities within 60 days.
✔ Deny the allegation—though HMRC may continue investigating and even escalate to prosecution.
How Wingate Accountants Can Help
✔ We have extensive experience in managing COP9 cases.
✔ We assist in preparing accurate disclosures that meet HMRC’s requirements.
✔ We negotiate the best possible financial settlement for you.
Due to the serious consequences of failing to disclose fully, you need expert advice. If you have received a COP9 letter, contact us immediately for a free and confidential consultation.
VAT Investigations
HMRC frequently conducts VAT compliance checks to ensure businesses are reporting VAT correctly. These investigations may involve:
✔ A detailed review of VAT returns and financial records.
✔ On-site visits—sometimes without notice.
✔ Expansion into a broader tax investigation if discrepancies are found.
How Wingate Accountants Can Help
✔ We assist in responding to VAT investigations.
✔ We ensure HMRC does not exceed its legal powers.
✔ We negotiate to minimise VAT liabilities and penalties.
Company Tax Investigations
HMRC may open an investigation into a company’s tax return through:
✔ Aspect enquiries – Focused on specific tax return entries.
✔ Full enquiries – A detailed examination of all financial records.
Often, HMRC will seek to review personal tax affairs of directors, but they do not automatically have the right to do so.
How Wingate Accountants Can Help
✔ We ensure HMRC stays within its legal limits.
✔ We negotiate to minimise any financial penalties.
✔ We handle all HMRC communications on your behalf.
If your company is under investigation, speak to us for a free consultation.
If HMRC has notified you of a VAT investigation, contact us today for expert guidance.
Let Property Campaign
If you are a landlord with undeclared rental income, HMRC’s Let Property Campaign provides a way to disclose unpaid taxes with reduced penalties.
HMRC gathers information on rental income from sources like:
✔ Land Registry & Council records
✔ Estate Agents & Letting Platforms (e.g., Airbnb)
How Wingate Accountants Can Help
✔ We guide you through the disclosure process.
✔ We ensure penalties are minimised.
✔ We resolve tax issues quickly and efficiently.
Contact us today for confidential advice on using the Let Property Campaign. Let Property Campaign Assistance in Manchester
Get expert help with voluntary disclosure and reduce penalties.
Digital Disclosure Service (DDS)
If you have undeclared income or capital gains, HMRC’s Digital Disclosure Service (DDS) allows you to make a voluntary disclosure and avoid higher penalties.
The DDS applies to:
✔ Income Tax
✔ Capital Gains Tax
✔ National Insurance Contributions
✔ Corporation Tax
How Wingate Accountants Can Help
✔ We prepare and submit your disclosure accurately.
✔ We negotiate with HMRC to reduce penalties.
✔ We ensure your tax affairs are fully resolved.
If you need to make a voluntary disclosure, contact us for expert support.
Why Choose Wingate Accountants?
✔ Specialist tax investigation expertise – We handle all HMRC tax disputes and disclosures.
✔ Proven track record – Successfully resolved numerous cases with HMRC.
✔ Minimise penalties & protect your interests – We fight to get the best outcome for you.
✔ Confidential & stress-free – We manage all HMRC interactions on your behalf.
If you need help with tax investigations, compliance checks, or voluntary disclosures, contact Wingate Accountants today for a free, no-obligation consultation.
