How to deal with HMRC nudge letters and information requests

Overview

Following our session in May about HMRC enquiries, Phil Berwick is back to talk to us about HMRC nudge letters and how to deal with them. Nudge letters are not covered by the statutory enquiry framework so there is no protection for your clients and how you respond can potentially leave them in a worse position.

This session will also look at handling information requests from HMRC, which was briefly touched upon in the May session. Phil will talk about the difference between informal and formal requests, and how you decide what information to provide to HMRC. 

Phil Berwick - Director, Berwick Tax Limited

Phil is a recognised expert in tax investigations matters. He is a former inspector of taxes. In addition, he has extensive experience gained in several accountancy and law firms, before starting Berwick Tax in 2015. In total, he has more than 35 years' experience dealing with a wide range of HMRC enquiries, disputes and investigations, including Codes of Practice 8 (Avoidance) and 9 (Contractual Disclosure Facility). Phil has extensive experience of assisting clients with making voluntary disclosures to HMRC.

He has acted for a wide range of clients, including individuals and businesses, across a broad spectrum of business sectors. Phil provides support to other professional advisers, and can assist with specific issues relating to enquiries, as well as providing full case-handling support. His detailed knowledge of HMRC procedures, and information powers, combined with his practical approach, means that he is able to secure excellent settlements for his clients, and help practitioners manage, and retain, their relationships with their clients. 

Phil is an author and lecturer on tax investigations issues, and presents monthly online sessions for a company providing educational services to professional advisers.