While we do, of course, prepare and file these accounts and returns on your behalf, we remain at the mercy of HMRC as to whether they will open an enquiry into the returns. We can of and do limit the potential for an enquiry, but we cannot entirely rule this out, as HMRC carry out routine checks of tax returns each year, have been known to select returns at random, and hold the power to investigate previous tax years.

This can be, and is, time consuming and therefore expensive. By way of an example, a recent enquiry we handled was opened in 2019 and did not conclude until 2022 ended up with fee costs of £4,600. As the client had TaxWise he didn't need to pay anything.

This is an entirely optional service we provide, but encourage clients to take it on because we feel it is important that we are able to provide the best possible service if HMRC comes calling. Investigations are no picnic. Whilst HMRC can sometimes be dissuaded with the right approach, often investigations drag on for extended periods of time which can prove stressful for all involved, and consultancy costs can soon mount up.

Please note that we can only offer this as an additional service to Acumenica Group clients who have a monthly agreement with us. We cannot offer this is as standalone service to non-clients.