P35 debacle

P35 debacle

Didn't find your answer?

I phoned HMRC just now because I was unsure in relation to a particular client whether a notice had been issued for the completion of form P35, and if so, whether someone else had already filed it or whether it was currently outstanding.

As to the second question I could understand it if they could not answer the question from information immediately to hand. And yes, I should know the answer without having to trouble HMRC. What tickled me was their answer to the first part:

They said that no return had been issued for completion. I found that mildly surprising, based on information available to me, and after a bit of further digging I ascertained that the justification for that advice was that no remittances for the year had been logged (!)

Well, if I do nothing I guess I can expect a £900 penalty in 9 months time, but it does seem odd to me that their only record of the requirement is based on a history of accounts office payments.
Clint Westwood

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By User deleted
11th May 2007 09:43

CYA

You are right, you don't want to think "well, they said that they aren't expecting anything, so I won't do anything", only to get into trouble later. Why don't you write to HMRC explaining that no return is due and ask for their agreement?

At least you can demonstrate a willingness to sort the situation out.

Alternatively, belt and braces, send in a signed 'nil' paper return. Then there's no arguement.

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By martinfoley07
13th May 2007 00:14

the 2005-06 farce has....
...at least had the result of creating a better response system for 2006-07.
They have even had to change the telephone numbers and hire X staff to cope.
But credit where credit is due, at least they have done so. (although as Clint demonstrates, the knowldege of individual staff responding is variable).

Simplest thing to do is (so long as no P35 is required to be filed) is to phone 'em and say so. Don't worry whether they have or have not issued a P35. Just tell 'em one is not required. Log the time and date of the call and take name of person taking the call (yes, it can be done by phone and they are quite quick to answer and process and they ask for no security issues so long as you have the refernces, name, address etc) .

Of course, if a P35 IS required, then best to try to do it online anyway.

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