Avoiding tax investigations

If you have a tax investigation we recommend seeking professional advice immediately. However, it is much better to avoid the investigation in the first place. Based on years of experience, here are some hints on how to give yourself a better change of falling below the radar:

- ensure your accounts and tax returns are submitted on time; if you can’t be bothered to submit on time the Taxman will think you can’t be bothered to get the numbers right either
- avoid large or unusual items when compared to the previous year; these items prompt a raised eyebrow from the Taxman
- less is more; avoid saying too much or giving copious explanations of things
- be quick to answer the Taxman’s questions; this will keep him happy and less likely to ask further questions
- be polite; although it is sometimes tempting not to, it will be better for you if you keep the Taxman sweet and show curtesy