Steps to follow upon receiving an APN

There are many individuals and businesses across the UK that are being hit with Accelerated Payment Notices from the Government as HMRC steps up the process of clamping down on those using tax avoidance schemes.

A vast majority of those issued with APNs are done so unexpectedly and therefore thrown into a frenzy of worry and fear about what this could mean for the future. Financial Saviour are here to eliminate those worries and inform you about the steps to take when receiving an APN.

1. Seek professional advice ASAP

We cannot stress the importance enough of seeking out expert support and guidance from specialist practitioners such as Financial Saviour when you first of all upon receive an APN.

This will not only help liaising with HMRC, but it is essential that anyone who receives an APN fully understands the implications and specialist practitioners break down all the technical jargon so you know exactly what to do and when to do it.

Communicating quickly and effectively with HMRC is the key to successfully dealing with APN situations and this is where you’ll really benefit having gained professional advice. You’ll be able to promptly contact HMRC and confidently liaise with them and any relevant parties which dramatically increases your chances of overcoming any problems.

It’s also important to note that if you paid into a marketed avoidance scheme, seek advice from those independent from the promoters of the scheme before making any decisions.

2. Retain documentation

Keeping safe and having quick access to all documents relating to any tax avoidance schemes you have been using could make a huge difference to your success in dealing with an APN.

These documents help confirm whether the correct amount of tax is demanded in the APN and are a genuine reason for HMRC amending an APN to a smaller amount.

They are also vital pieces of evidence that can be used alongside written requests objecting to an APN as, with no appeal procedure for APNs, this is the only way you can challenge the information stated by HMRC.

If you don’t have or can’t find the official documentation, copies should be requested at the very least.

3. Explore other opportunities

The previous two steps allow you to then explore other opportunities for dealing with an APN through arrangements and settlements.

Professional guidance will give you an idea of any settlements that can be made with HMRC before a tax tribunal ruling. Consider taking advantage of these, particularly Time To Pay arrangements which offer the best terms the quicker you communicate with HMRC.

If there are any inconsistencies between your documentation for an avoidance scheme and an APN, there are professionals who can also investigate to check if HMRC have taken the proper procedural steps in your case.

For any help and advice with Accelerated Payment Notifications, fill out our enquiry form or contact Financial Saviour on 01257 452021 or email info@acceleratedpaymentnotice.net.