1
Tell us what HMRC has sent
Explain the tax involved, the key wording, the period concerned and any response or appeal deadline.
Solicitors DirectTMTax & HMRC Help. NOW.
Clear initial guidance for HMRC investigations, tax disputes, VAT, penalties and tribunal appeals before speaking to a specialist solicitor if needed.
Type or speak — whichever is easier.
Or choose a topic to get started
How Tax & HMRC Enquiries Work
2
Receive free guidance
Get clear initial information about the immediate issues, documents and sensible next steps.
3
Complete your details
Where specialist help may be appropriate, provide only the information needed to match the enquiry.
4
Speak with the right solicitor
We connect suitable enquiries with a participating Tax & HMRC solicitor.
What May Matter in a Tax or HMRC Case?
The enquiry type, tax period, sums involved, correspondence and deadlines can materially affect the available options.
HMRC Letter or Notice
The exact wording can show the enquiry type, powers being used and the response HMRC expects.
Dates & Deadlines
Appeals, reviews, disclosure responses, payment dates and tribunal steps may require prompt action.
Tax & Financial Exposure
Assessments, penalties, interest, tax periods and the amounts in dispute can affect urgency and strategy.
Records & Previous Advice
Returns, accounts, calculations, correspondence and advice from accountants or other professionals may be central.
Documents You Should Keep
Preserve the full correspondence and records. Do not alter or destroy documents after an enquiry begins.
HMRC Letters & Notices
Tax Returns & Computations
Accounts & Financial Records
Contracts, Invoices & Payroll
Adviser Correspondence
Timeline & Key Deadlines
Tax & HMRC FAQs
What should I do if HMRC opens an investigation?
Read the letter carefully, note every deadline and preserve all relevant records. Avoid guessing in a response. A specialist can help identify the enquiry type, scope and safest next step.
What is the difference between COP8 and COP9?
COP8 generally concerns suspected complex tax avoidance or significant loss of tax without suspected fraud. COP9 is used where HMRC suspects tax fraud and offers a contractual disclosure process. The precise letter and facts matter.
Can an HMRC penalty be appealed?
Many penalties can be appealed within a stated time limit. Grounds may include reasonable excuse, incorrect calculation, procedural errors or special circumstances, depending on the penalty.
Can I appeal a tax assessment?
Often yes, but the route and deadline depend on the decision. An internal review, statutory appeal or tribunal application may be available.
Do I need a tax solicitor or an accountant?
Accountants often handle compliance and calculations. Tax solicitors are particularly useful for disputes, investigations, legal privilege, disclosure strategy and tribunal or court proceedings. Some cases require both.
Can I ask a question without instructing a solicitor?
Yes. Solicitors Direct provides free initial guidance. A referral is offered only where the enquiry appears suitable and you choose to proceed.
Do Not Ignore an HMRC Deadline.
Explain the situation now and receive clear initial guidance about the next step.