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HMRC Enquiries & Investigations Support
Experienced, calm representation if HMRC opens a compliance check or enquiry into your tax affairs.
Receiving a letter from HMRC opening a compliance check or enquiry into your tax affairs is unsettling, even when you’ve done nothing wrong. How it’s handled from that first letter onwards often shapes how smoothly, and how quickly, it gets resolved. At Durhams Accountants we represent individuals and businesses across Wakefield, Yorkshire and the wider UK through HMRC enquiries and investigations, dealing directly with HMRC on your behalf, managing correspondence and deadlines, and working to bring matters to a fair, efficient conclusion with as little disruption to you as possible.
What Triggers an HMRC Enquiry
HMRC opens enquiries for all sorts of reasons, from a specific figure on a return that looks unusual compared to industry norms, to random selection as part of routine compliance activity, to information received from a third party such as a bank or another country’s tax authority. An enquiry doesn’t automatically mean HMRC suspects wrongdoing, and many are resolved quickly once the right information is provided. What matters most is responding promptly, accurately and through someone who understands exactly what HMRC is asking for and why.
From Aspect Enquiry to Full Investigation
Enquiries range from a simple ‘aspect’ enquiry querying one specific item on a return, through to a full enquiry covering your entire tax position, and in more serious cases a formal investigation under Code of Practice 9 where fraud is suspected. We assess which type of enquiry you’re facing, the questions HMRC is actually asking beneath the formal wording, and build a response strategy appropriate to the seriousness of the case, rather than treating every letter from HMRC the same way.
Why Representation Matters
Dealing with HMRC directly, without experienced representation, often means giving more information than necessary, answering questions imprecisely, or missing opportunities to resolve matters favourably. We act as the point of contact between you and HMRC, managing all correspondence, meetings and deadlines, and making sure nothing is said or submitted that could inadvertently extend or worsen the enquiry. This takes the day-to-day stress off you and gives the matter the best chance of a swift, proportionate resolution.
Our Process: How We Support You Through an Enquiry
1
Review the HMRC letter
We assess exactly what’s being asked and the type of enquiry you’re facing.
2
Gather the facts
We work with you to establish the full picture before responding to HMRC.
3
Respond on your behalf
We handle correspondence with HMRC directly, keeping you informed throughout.
4
Negotiate where needed
We work to reach a fair, proportionate outcome if adjustments are required.
5
Bring it to a close
We confirm the enquiry is formally closed and help you avoid a repeat in future.
Bringing in Specialist Support, Even Mid-Enquiry
If you’re already in the middle of an HMRC enquiry and feel your current accountant isn’t handling it well, or you don’t currently have an accountant representing you at all, it’s not too late to bring in specialist support. We can step in at any stage of an enquiry, request the case history and correspondence so far, and take over communication with HMRC without losing momentum. Acting sooner rather than later generally leads to a better outcome, so there’s no need to wait until the position becomes more serious.
Why Choose Durhams Accountants
An HMRC enquiry is stressful precisely because so much feels outside your control. We bring calm, experienced representation that takes the direct dealings with HMRC off your plate, explains what’s happening in plain English at every stage, and works towards the most favourable, proportionate outcome available. Based in Wakefield and supporting individuals and businesses across Yorkshire and the UK, we combine technical tax knowledge with the reassurance of having someone experienced firmly in your corner.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does an HMRC enquiry mean I've done something wrong?
Not necessarily. Many enquiries are opened as routine checks or because of a specific figure that looks unusual, and are resolved without any adjustment being needed.
How long does an HMRC enquiry usually take?
It varies considerably depending on the type and complexity, from a few weeks for a simple aspect enquiry to over a year for a full investigation.
Can you help if I'm already partway through an enquiry with another accountant?
Yes, we can take over representation at any stage, reviewing the case history and correspondence so far before continuing the response.
Will I have to meet with HMRC in person?
Some enquiries involve a meeting, but this isn’t always required, and where one is needed we prepare you thoroughly and can attend alongside you.
What happens if HMRC finds an error on my return?
We negotiate on your behalf regarding any additional tax, interest and penalties due, aiming for the most favourable and proportionate outcome possible.
How is pricing structured for enquiry support?
Pricing depends on the type and expected duration of the enquiry. We agree a clear fee structure upfront once we understand the scope of the case.
Received a letter from HMRC? Don't face it alone
Get in touch as soon as possible for calm, experienced support, or use the form alongside this page.