We are told that more monies are being given to HMRC and more Inspectors employed. Does this mean we will not have to wait the normal 20 minutes for the telephone to be answered - If we are at all lucky. Somehow I doubt it. My firms' complaints to the Chancellor and the Treasurer have remained unanswered on this issue.
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What number do you call?
The agents help line is never that busy, yesterday for example I got straight through. These new "Inspectors" are mostly promotees, where else would they come from? But they don't answer phones.
Agreed ....
never had to wait more than 30 seconds for the agent line and 95% of the time they are able to do what I want in a generally efficient manner.
Sadly
never had to wait more than 30 seconds for the agent line and 95% of the time they are able to do what I want in a generally efficient manner.
Sadly only true for the SA line, do we even have an agent line for other taxes? Calling up about VAT is unbearable, not least because you have to sit through huge messages saying 'If you are calling about #insert list of things# you will find the answer on our website' followed by 'I know we already said this, but If you are calling about #insert list of things# you will find the answer on our website'.
Not an Agent
I am employed in Industry and am amazed that my AWEB colleagues who are SA Agents don't suffer from the apalling telephone response rates from the majority of HMRC lines.
Even if you have the patience of a saint (I don't) and manage not to smash your telephone handset in frustration and you succeed in getting an answer you then suffer the ignominity of being told that HMRC have a website (Doh!). If i could find the answer there or it would confirm a viewpoint I'd not be phoning......ggggggrrrrrrrr!!!!
Whilst i don't think th OP was serious in framing the question there is a serious point to be made about this issue.
A happy and relaxed accountant who get's through promptly will in all liklihood result in a more pleasant and productive conversation with the HMRC drone (and this isn't meant as an insult, some are really helpful) on the other end.
@ Barrowbakers - Oh yeah
yep had that too. It's hard not to take it out on whoever answers the phone, if it is answered.