HMRC Enquiry & Investigation Support
If you've received a letter from HMRC, you don't have to face it alone. We support Cardiff businesses through tax enquiries and investigations, handling the process from start to finish so you can focus on running your business.
How we support you through an HMRC enquiry
Whether it's a routine check or a more serious investigation, we manage every stage on your behalf. From the moment you receive contact from HMRC, we're here to protect your interests and bring things to a fair resolution.
Aspect Enquiries
Focused checks into specific areas of your tax return where HMRC have spotted a discrepancy or want clarification.
Full Enquiries
Comprehensive investigations covering your entire tax affairs, often triggered by suspected non-compliance or unusual patterns.
VAT Investigations
Support through VAT compliance reviews, from dealing with inspections to negotiating settlements and correcting returns.
COP8 & COP9 Cases
Expert handling of serious enquiries under Code of Practice 8 (complex cases) and COP9 (suspected fraud), including voluntary disclosures.
When HMRC gets in touch
Receiving a letter from HMRC can be unsettling, especially if you're not sure what they're looking for or how serious it might be. An enquiry might focus on a single point in your tax return, or it could be a full investigation into your business affairs. Either way, having professional support from the outset makes a real difference to how smoothly things go and what the outcome looks like.
We act as your representative throughout the process. That means we handle all correspondence with HMRC, interpret what they're asking for, compile the evidence they need, and negotiate on your behalf. You won't be left wondering what something means or whether you've said the right thing, because we take care of the liaison while keeping you informed at every stage.
We deal with HMRC so you can get back to running your business.
More information
Most enquiries start with a formal letter setting out what HMRC want to look at and which documents they need to see. We review that letter with you, explain what type of enquiry it is, and put together a plan. From there, we collate your records, check everything is accurate and complete, and submit responses that are clear and professional. If HMRC want to interview you or your directors, we prepare you properly and attend the meeting.
What happens during an investigation
The process varies depending on the type of enquiry. Aspect enquiries tend to be quicker and more focused, often resolved within a few months once the right information is provided. Full enquiries are more detailed and can take longer, particularly if there are complex transactions or missing records to piece together. VAT investigations usually involve a visit from an HMRC officer, and we coordinate that visit, answer their questions, and handle any follow-up.
For more serious cases under Code of Practice 9, where HMRC suspect deliberate tax fraud, we guide you through the option of making a voluntary disclosure. COP9 cases require specialist handling because the stakes are higher, but with the right approach and full cooperation, it's possible to reach a fair settlement and avoid prosecution. COP8 cases involve complex tax issues without the fraud element, and we work to resolve those efficiently while protecting your position.
Our approach
We've supported plenty of Cardiff and South Wales businesses through HMRC enquiries, from small sole traders to growing SMEs. Every case is different, but the principles stay the same: respond promptly, provide accurate information, and negotiate firmly but fairly. HMRC are more reasonable when they're dealing with someone who knows the process and can present your case clearly, and that's where we come in.
If you've already been managing the enquiry yourself and it's become overwhelming, we can step in at any stage. We'll review where things stand, take over the correspondence, and get everything back on track. The sooner we're involved, the better, but it's never too late to get professional support.
Most enquiries end in a fair settlement when handled properly from the start.
After the enquiry
Once the investigation is complete, we help you update your tax affairs, submit any amended returns, and agree a payment plan if there's a settlement due. If you're not happy with HMRC's decision, we can support you through the appeals process or represent you at tribunal. We also offer ongoing compliance support so your records stay in good shape and reduce the chance of future enquiries.
If you've received a letter from HMRC or you're worried about your tax position, get in touch. We'll explain what's happening, what your options are, and how we can help. Most importantly, you won't be dealing with it on your own.
You might also need
Tax Relief on Business Assets (AIA)
Claim Annual Investment Allowance (AIA) on qualifying equipment, fit-outs and vans. We check eligibility, calculate capital allowances and include the claim in your return.
Tax Relief on Business Assets (AIA)→Business Tax Planning
Plan ahead for Corporation Tax or Self Assessment, forecast what you will owe, and use allowances, expenses and profit extraction sensibly.
Business Tax Planning→R&D Tax Credits
Claim R&D Tax Credits without the stress. We confirm eligibility, calculate qualifying costs, write the supporting report, and submit the claim with your Corporation Tax return.
R&D Tax Credits→Corporation Tax Planning
Get a clear estimate of your company’s corporation tax, plan director pay and spending, and avoid nasty surprises at year end with practical, plain-English advice.
Corporation Tax Planning→Corporation Tax Returns
CT600 and iXBRL preparation and filing for limited companies, with clear tax calculations, allowance checks, and deadline tracking so you stay compliant and avoid surprises.
Corporation Tax Returns→Before you get in touch
Here's what Cardiff business owners usually want to know about HMRC enquiries and how we support you through them.
What should I do if I've just received a letter from HMRC?
How long does an HMRC enquiry usually take?
Will I have to meet with HMRC in person?
How much will this cost?
What happens if HMRC find I owe tax?
Can you help if the enquiry has already started?
Do you only support businesses in Cardiff?
What if I think HMRC have made a mistake?
Let's talk about your HMRC enquiry
Book a free consultation and we'll explain what's happening, what it means for you, and how we can help.
Book a free consultation