HMRC has a set up a phone helpline to support businesses and self-employed people concerned about not being able to pay their tax due to the coronavirus.
23 March 2020
It means SME businesses have now started getting support to delay payment of their VAT and PAYE liabilities. Here's what to have to hand before you call.
For those who are unable to pay due to coronavirus, HMRC will discuss your specific circumstances to explore:
- agreeing an instalment arrangement
- suspending debt collection proceedings
- cancelling penalties and interest where you have administrative difficulties contacting or
- paying HMRC immediately
The helpline number is 0800 0159 559 – and is an addition to other HMRC phone contact numbers. The helpline is open from Monday to Friday 8am to 8pm, and Saturday 8am to 4pm (excluding bank holidays).
What to have to hand before you call HMRC
Businesses are strongly advised to be prepared for the conversation with HMRC and have the following key information to hand:
- Description of the business
- Annual total liability to tax
- Amounts requesting to be deferred
- Proposed period of deferral
- Reasons for requesting deferral (directly linked to COVID-19)
- Details of discussions with other stakeholders / lenders
- Details of other actions taken to mitigate cash outflows
- A short-term cashflow forecast
- Authority to confirm directors will ensure all instalment payments will be met
Other support measures
You'll find an overview of other support measures introduced by the Government to help businesses during the Coronavirus situation here.
If you need any further advice please speak with your usual Shipleys' contact or call one of our offices.
London: +44 (0)20 7312 0000
Godalming: +44 (0)1483 423607
Specific advice should be obtained before taking action, or refraining from taking action, in relation to this information, if you would like advice or further information, please speak to your usual Shipleys contact.
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