Threatening HMRC letters for company directors

HM Revenue & Customs has been accused of sending letters written in a ‘threatening tone’ to company directors who have to fill in personal tax returns.

The letters suggested directors might be lying about how much tax they owe, stating ‘Company directors commonly make errors in claims for business expenses as they include personal expenses. Examples that we often find incorrectly claimed are: entertaining, clothing, food and drink, household running costs.”

They go on to say: ‘If we do not hear from you within 30 days we will make an assessment to collect the amount that we believe is due… we will then send you a revised self-assessment statement with details of how to make a payment.”

The tone of the letters has been described by accountants as intimidating and implying that the tax payer is lying. If you receive such a letter we recommend you seek professional advice.