Doing business with HMRC over the phone
HMRC have published a statement setting out the types of information, claims and requests that HMRC Taxes Contact Centres will accept, from individuals or their representatives, over the telephone.
Statement of Practice 1/10 supercedes the previous version which was numbered 1/05. It explains HMRC’s approach to security and confidentiality and that the facility is only available for callers to supply or amend information concerning individuals’ tax affairs. Where agents or representatives make the call it is important that HMRC hold evidence that due authorisation has been provided by the taxpayer/client. However the statement suggests that HMRC will take a pragmatic approach where they do not hold such evidence.
The statement contains a detailed list of the information, claims and requests that may be made by telephone. It also confirms that HMRC will provide certain information by phone and specifies what personal data will NOT be shared by phone.
Where the service is used properly nothing more than a telephone call will be needed, although the call may lead to further action by HM Revenue & Customs (for example, sending out a revised PAYE coding notice).
Amendments to Self Assessment returns made by telephone will be checked in the same way as amendments made in writing and in some cases they may enquire into the amendment.