HMRC enquiry...again!

HMRC enquiry...again!

Didn't find your answer?

So, how many full enquiries is 'acceptable'...following from a previous post.

In practice for 7 years, building the practice gradually, and mainly from referrals, now with over 260 clients.

Probably growing on average by 40 ish per year now.

2 clients now having a full enquiry, one is a new client and the old accountant has made a total hash of the tax return. Other client, has not declared all income, but is aware that someone has reported him.

Today, another letter querying travel expenses claimed by an ex-client who did the return themselves for 2014.

I really do try to ensure my practice is 'clean' and don't take on every person who asks us to work for them. I have also disengaged from a few clients over the years.

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By ShirleyM
23rd Feb 2015 21:29

Virtually all the enquiries we handle ...

... are for new clients who have done their own returns prior to appointing us (and done them very badly).

I quite enjoy sorting out the mess, and they are more appreciative of our services and are less likely to argue about what is allowable, and what isn't!

I don't think any of them are a bad reflection of your practice.

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By andy.partridge
24th Feb 2015 09:25

Not all bad news

Firstly, all enquiry work is chargeable at a premium rate and secondly all clients are offered fee protection insurance so there is no quibble about the charges.

I can understand that dealing with enquiry matters can be seen as a distraction from your normal work but if it is profitable (and it should be very profitable) it should soften the blow.

Having a couple of enquiries on the go doesn't seem excessive for a practice your size. 

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By murphy1
24th Feb 2015 09:50

Thanks again. I was starting to worry, but did rationalise that is surely isn't bad, and you are right Andy, it is profitable.

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