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HMRC fails us yet again
The client is a contractor and sub-contractor: Self-employed. He hires sub-contractors to complete the job.
As I was made aware of it being a potential case for the reporting, I phoned up the special advisory line (0300 055 5995) set up. This has happened three times and it has been reiterated to me that while there is no direct arrangement of supply with the customer, he is still required to be report his subbies. In spite of trying to enrol with the correct details, the useless portal continuously flags it as an error.
As the agents are not allowed, I had to ask the client to find time to try and then take it up with the helpline as they will not enter any discussion with me. Amazingly, the helpline refused to help the client informing him that he didn’t need to report (Albeit, the HMRC making a fool of an agent with a contradictory advice!). On returning to the above phone line, some John insisted the reporting was necessary, and he would get back with the guidance as to how to resolve the portal rejecting an enrolment. Of course, I have not heard from him as expected. In the meantime, complaint raised, had returned with the same unhelpful standard note asking the client to sort it out with the helpdesk!
I have now advised the client that I have exhausted all my efforts banging my head against a brick wall. And this also may be due the fact that I have registered him under the PAYE XP scheme. I have also told him to keep the records, and as usual if the HMRC surfaces smugly slapping the fine, he can only show his intentions and the HMRC’s failure, if that does any good!
I still have till tomorrow to help the client, and he will attempt to try today again. Have told him, if the HMRC helpdesk advises again not to file a report, get them to send an email with (or in writing) such a statement to keep on the file.
I will like to hear from the experts here their input. Thanks.