Fee protection

Peace of mind from only £70 plus VAT

With a multi billion pound budget for catching tax evaders and an increase in HMRC investigative powers where officers can make unannounced inspections and demand records without issuing a formal notice, you should consider Fee Protection for your business if you aren't already covered. Anyone who has undergone an HMRC investigation will testify to the benefits of inexpensive Fee Protection insurance cover.

Tax investigations of one sort or another are on the increase, whether these investigations relate to Income Tax, Corporation Tax, P.A.Y.E., National Insurance or V.A.T. Revenue and Customs are diverting time and resources to investigations and the additional tax generated from these is significant, with the professional costs of defense rising. Our reputation with the Revenue is very good and in the past we have only had to deal with a handful of investigation cases per annum. However, with the start of self-assessment (and now company self-assessment), we are entering a new era with -

  • random investigations
  • a policy of starting investigations without having to give any reason for the selection
  • an increase in the number of "investigation trained" Revenue/Customs staff

We are therefore of the opinion that it is to your advantage to take out insurance to cover the professional fees which can result from an investigation, which lasts between nine and twelve months on average. In addition, the insurer offers access to a telephone helpline where experienced consultants will answer your queries on employment and personnel matters; health and safety queries and general commercial legal advice. Contact Mark Mitchell on 01383 628800 or email mmitchell@thomsoncooper.com to arrange a free initial consultation.