HMRC U-turn on helpline closures
Earlier this week, HMRC announced that it would be scaling back its tax helplines, a move that was widely criticised. It has now seemingly reversed the decision. What’s going on?
Earlier this week HMRC announced cuts to several phone services, including closing of the self-assessment helpline for six months. The intention was to allocate staff resources elsewhere and make taxpayers move to online services such as the HMRC app. The changes were supposed to be permanent, with helplines open only for priority queries at critical times. However, the announcement was met with substantial criticism from the CIOT president who described the move as “misguided”.
In response to the backlash, HMRC issued another press release stating that its plans would be halted while it engages with its stakeholders about how to ensure all taxpayers’ needs - including small businesses' - are met as HMRC shifts more people to online self-service in the longer term. Phonelines will therefore remain open for now.
Related Topics
-
Dodging the 2027 IHT and pension changes
In a little over a year the inheritance tax (IHT) exemption for unused pension savings comes to an end. If you’re married or in a civil partnership, one simple step might save your estate thousands in IHT. What is it?
-
Act now to spread the cost of your tax bill
The deadline for filing your 2024/25 self-assessment tax return and paying the tax you owe is 31 January 2026. However, if you file your tax return early, you may be able to pay through your PAYE code instead. Are you eligible?
-
Electronic VAT return and payment due