VAT investigation

[DaveB]

What's the likelihood that this could escalate into further investigations, such as IR35 - even if the VAT side is clean?

Minimal. They may all be one big happy family now but that doesnt mean they actually talk to eachother ( like most families really ). More likely to get an IR35 investigation off the back of a PAYE/NI visit.

[Qdos Contractor]

What's the likelihood that this could escalate into further investigations, such as IR35 - even if the VAT side is clean?

I would be very, very surprised if anything like that happened. Massively unlikely. As most other people have said, VAT reviews are generally painless and routine unless you've been an idiot.

Definitely not worthy of a patio burial.

[Cheshire Cat]

I reckon it's the latest variant of the 419 scam. If they ask you to "hold" some VAT funds for HMRC, beware.

[Fred Bloggs]

I would be very, very surprised if anything like that happened. Massively unlikely. As most other people have said, VAT reviews are generally painless and routine unless you've been an idiot.

Definitely not worthy of a patio burial.

If I get this (I'm insured with QDOS for TLC35) do I inform QDOS, or just handle it myself? AFAIK I'm squeaky clean on VAT anyway, thankfully.

[tim123]

A contractor colleague sat next to me has just received a call from HMRC, saying they're conducting a VAT investigation, and would like to come round to his house and take a look at documentation etc.

I advised him to speak to his accountant right away (He's on the phone now).

Any advice on his initial moves?

Book a suitable day off work!

As a VAT registered entity you can expect to receive one visit from the VAT inspector every two-three years.

Though if you're a good boy they seem to wait 5-6 for subsequent visits.

This is all perfectly normal, something that you must comply with and (apart from the exact choice of date) outside of your control

tim

[Qdos Contractor]

If I get this (I'm insured with QDOS for TLC35) do I inform QDOS, or just handle it myself? AFAIK I'm squeaky clean on VAT anyway, thankfully.

Because they are so routine, the representation at the audits themselves are not covered. If it develops into an enquiry, however, the insurance will kick in.

Obviously give us a call if you do receive notice if an inspection and we'll provide support/advice as necessary.

[Fred Bloggs]

Because they are so routine, the representation at the audits themselves are not covered. If it develops into an enquiry, however, the insurance will kick in.

Obviously give us a call if you do receive notice if an inspection and we'll provide support/advice as necessary.

Thank you for the clarification.