HMRC Restricts Access to Helpline in Run-Up to Tax Return Deadline
As the tax return deadline approaches, HMRC has announced that it will be limiting access to its helpline. This news has come as a shock to many small business owners who rely on the helpline for assistance with their tax returns.
The tax return deadline is a critical time for small businesses, and HMRC’s decision to limit access to its helpline could have a significant impact on the ability of small business owners to meet their obligations.
HMRC has stated that the decision to limit access to its helpline is due to the increased demand for its services during the tax return period. The helpline is expected to be particularly busy in the run-up to the deadline, and HMRC has said that it is taking steps to ensure that its resources are used efficiently.
HMRC has also said that it is introducing a range of measures to help small business owners during the tax return period. These include the introduction of a new online system which will allow small business owners to submit their tax returns electronically. This system is expected to be available from April 2021.
In addition, HMRC has said that it will be providing additional support to small business owners who are struggling to meet their obligations. This includes the provision of additional guidance and advice, as well as the introduction of a new online tool which will help small business owners to calculate their tax liabilities.
HMRC has also said that it will be providing additional resources to its helpline in order to ensure that it is able to meet the increased demand during the tax return period. This includes the recruitment of additional staff and the introduction of new technology which will enable HMRC to respond to queries more quickly.
The decision to limit access to its helpline has been met with some criticism from small business owners, who have expressed concern that the move could have a negative impact on their ability to meet their obligations.
However, HMRC has said that it is taking steps to ensure that small business owners are able to access the help and support they need during the tax return period. It has also said that it is committed to providing a high level of service to small business owners, and that it is confident that its new measures will help to ensure that the tax return period is as stress-free as possible.
Overall, HMRC’s decision to limit access to its helpline in the run-up to the tax return deadline is likely to have a significant impact on small business owners. However, HMRC has said that it is taking steps to ensure that small business owners are able to access the help and support they need during this critical period. With the introduction of new online systems and additional resources, HMRC is confident that it will be able to provide a high level of service to small business owners during the tax return period.
