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January 28, 2014

HMRC launches Alternative Dispute Resolution service

HMRC have launched a way for small businesses and individuals to resolve disputes after a successful trial.

Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) uses independent HMRC facilitators to resolve disputes between HMRC and customers during a compliance check. It aims to find a fair and quick outcome for both parties, helping reduce costs and avoid a tribunal.

It follows a two-year trial and extensive consultation with professional bodies and the voluntary sector.
Richard Summersgill, HMRC Director of Local Compliance, said:

“I am delighted to announce that Alternative Dispute Resolution for small businesses and individuals has entered mainstream HMRC business. We know that taxpayers like the speed and flexibility of Alternative Dispute Resolution, and evidence has shown that by using the simple service, many disputes can be significantly shortened and resolved without recourse to Tribunal.”

Where a tax issue is disputed, alternative dispute resolution is available to small businesses and individual taxpayers, whether HMRC has made an appealable tax decision/assessment or not.

Visit our website for more information on ADR, including how to apply for the process visit.

ADR covers both VAT and direct taxes disputes, and entering into the ADR process will not affect the taxpayer’s existing review and appeal rights.

If HMRC’s Local Compliance SME, Local Compliance Individuals and Public Bodies business units handle customers’ tax affairs, ADR is available nationwide.

ADR cannot guarantee the resolution of the dispute, but by the end of the process, taxpayers will have clarity on the outstanding issues and the next steps.

Call M. Qaiser Khanzada today for more information on HMRC’s alternative dispute resolution service.

Note: This article is not legal advice; it provides information of general interest about current legal issues.

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