DMBM518500 - Debt and return pursuit: Self Assessment: customers requiring assistance in an outstanding SA return situation

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Background

Previously, customers in need of help with the completion of their return were able to make an appointment to call in at their local enquiry centre but as of 30 June 2014 all HMRC Enquiry Centres have been closed.

DMB colleagues should advise such customers to contact  Self Assessment: general enquiries.

The SA helpline provides help, advice and information on a wide range of SA enquiries, including advice on tax return completion. Generally, customers seeking assistance with SA return completion should:

  • have to hand information about their financial circumstances for the year in question
  • not expect HMRC to make specific calculations on the amounts that are entered into the boxes.

What a customer will need to have ready

If employed they will need the totals for the year for:

  • pay and tax (from P60 or from P45 / payslips for each employment)
  • benefits-in-kind for the year (from forms P11D)
  • total amounts from any pensions or taxable benefits received
  • totals of any other income received (for example, bank or building society interest, dividends).

If self-employed or in a partnership they will need the totals for the year for:

  • turnover
  • details and the sum total of their expenses
  • total amount of any tax deducted; for example, under CIS
  • total amounts any pensions or social security benefits received
  • details of any other income received (for example, bank or building society interest, dividends).

Extra help

The SA helpline staff will evaluate the level of assistance a customer may need and, if necessary, offer a new service of specialist help over the phone, supported by a mobile team of advisers for customers who need extra help. More information about extra help can be found at www.gov.uk/dealing-hmrc-additional-needs