Chartered Certified Accountants
Tax Investigation and Disclosure Specialists

“Insights”

UK sole trader reviewing a missed Making Tax Digital quarterly update with an accountant

Making Tax Digital: What Happens If You Miss a Quarterly Update?

Missing a Making Tax Digital quarterly update does not necessarily mean an immediate fine. HMRC will not issue penalty points for late quarterly updates in the 2026–27 tax year. From later tax years, however, a missed deadline will normally create a penalty point, and repeated failures can lead to £200 penalties.

HMRC investigation myths and misunderstandings explained by a UK tax adviser

HMRC Investigations: Common Myths and Misunderstandings

An HMRC investigation can sound frightening, particularly when much of what people hear comes from rumours, alarming headlines or someone else’s experience. In reality, HMRC enquiries take many forms, and receiving a letter does not automatically mean that HMRC suspects fraud. Understanding the facts can help you respond calmly, protect your position and avoid making the situation more difficult

Supportive UK accountant listening to a client with tax problems

Why We Do Not Judge Clients for Their Tax Problems

Tax problems often come with embarrassment, fear and a strong temptation to keep putting things off. However, accountants are there to understand what happened and help clients find a lawful way forward—not to judge them. The sooner we know the complete position, the sooner we can begin dealing with it.

UK tax adviser reviewing evidence for an HMRC tax investigation Image title:

What Evidence Does HMRC Use During a Tax Investigation?

During a tax investigation, HMRC rarely relies on one document alone. It may compare tax returns, bank transactions, business records, information from third parties, overseas financial data and publicly available material. Understanding how HMRC builds a picture can help taxpayers prepare an accurate response and explain apparent inconsistencies before HMRC draws the wrong conclusion.

Accountant using a secure digital system to protect confidential client financial information

How Accounting Firms Protect Client Data

Accounting firms hold detailed financial and personal information about their clients. This guide explains the practical, professional and technical safeguards firms should use to protect that information.

Person privately discussing tax problems with a professional adviser in a confidential

“I Don’t Want Anyone to Know About My Situation”

Many taxpayers delay seeking help because they are worried someone will discover their tax problems. In reality, professional tax advice is confidential, and addressing the issue early often prevents it becoming more stressful and more expensive.