HMRC Customer Service Issues

I missed a payment due on 31 July [redacted] because the post was sent to my old address after I moved. I received it late and realized the payment was already overdue. I also just completed my tax return for 2[redacted] this week thinking I didn't need to since my earnings were minimal, likely below £[redacted], possibly even less than £[redacted]. Now, I'm faced with a late payment fee that I don't believe I should be required to pay given I am not eligible to pay tax due to low earnings last year.

I began trading in the UK as a freelance photographer at the start of tax year 2[redacted]. I own assets purchased before this date, such as cameras and computers, which I never claimed as deductibles. I thought only assets acquired during the current trading year could be claimed. While preparing this year's tax return, I learned that I can claim these previously purchased assets. I am unsure about the value I can claim for these assets. Should I claim a percentage of the market value or the depreciated amount at the beginning of the [redacted] tax year or the start of the [redacted] tax year? One source mentioned 18%, but I am hopeful it could be higher. I couldn't find additional information on this matter, and I need clarification.

I need assistance with completing the necessary sections for my taxes. I am struggling to navigate the options available and have been attempting to sort it out for quite some time without success. Here is my situation: I worked as a Live-in carer in Switzerland for seven months during the [redacted]/15 tax year, from September [redacted] to March [redacted]. Even though my job required me to live with the individuals I cared for, I maintained my residence in the UK, where I rented a room. During this time, I solely worked in Switzerland. As a Swiss national, I was subject to Swiss taxation, with deductions such as pension contributions automatically withheld from my earnings, which were then converted and transferred to my UK bank account by the employer's accountant. I do not have investments or additional income sources aside from my bank account and a credit card. My expenses are minimal and include stationery and transportation. Any guidance you can provide would be greatly appreciated.

As a self-employed musician and record producer who operates as a sole trader with a business account shared with a partner, you have successfully managed your finances through gig payments and investments in your studio. In the tax year [redacted]-15, ending with a £[redacted] credit, it's vital to accurately report your income from gig payments received in your personal account. When determining the profit from the business account, consider consulting a tax professional to ensure proper reporting and allocation of funds used for business purposes such as pressing records and studio investments. Transparently accounting for your business earnings and expenses will contribute to accurate tax returns and financial clarity.

We are a UK company operating with an EIN. Our new US website will generate income in dollars, to be transferred from our US Paypal to our UK dollar account. What tax obligations should we consider? We do not have a physical presence in the US, but utilize a warehouse/logistics service to deliver goods to customers in California. Are we required to collect sales tax on these transactions? If so, is it limited to California or applicable across the US?

Hello, I am currently living in Austria and have worked here for 10 months after previously working in the UK. I am planning to start my self-employment journey in Austria and have been advised by the local Job Support Service (AMS) on benefits available to support me during this transition, including an opportunity to join their new self-employment program for financial support and guidance. To proceed, I need a U1 form from the UK to validate my employment for February and March [redacted], which I can substantiate with my payslips. Unfortunately, the local job center where my family resides was unaware of the U1 form process and couldn't assist me. In summary, I am seeking a U1 form to demonstrate my 12-month work history in Europe (2 months in the UK and 10 months in Austria) without the need to physically return to the UK due to time constraints. Best regards, S. Caldwell

Hello, I made my national insurance contribution on April 9th, and the payment reflects as being credited on January 31st instead. This discrepancy is causing issues with my maternity allowance application, jeopardizing my eligibility for the standard rate benefit. Despite timely payment, the system seems to have caused confusion. With my baby due in 3 weeks, the situation is creating undue stress. I kindly request assistance in clarifying the situation to ensure I receive the appropriate support during my maternity leave. Thank you for your help. Sincerely, A.P.

I recently received a penalty for filing my SA late and now have a 5% surcharge to pay, which I find unfair. My previous accountants neglected to file my SA, assuming my new accountant would handle it. I had informed both that the new accountant would take over after the tax year ended, but they did not inform me of the situation. Only upon receiving the penalty did I realize they had not filed my SA. My new accountant promptly submitted the SA to prevent further penalties, but I recently received the surcharge notice. I am seeking a refund for the penalties as this situation has been stressful, and I feel unheard. Both accountants seem indifferent and insist I have to pay, which I find unjust given the problems and costs they have caused me without any recourse. Regards, Ian Bielby

I checked the HMRC website for my tax code and noticed an error. Currently, I am listed as employed by two employers — Protocol Education and Wolverhampton City Council. However, I left Protocol Education on March 28, [redacted], and started at Wolverhampton City Council on April 16. At Protocol, my tax code was for a single person, but the system shows otherwise. At the council, my tax code is BR, which is also incorrect. I have only had one job and should be entitled to the single person's tax allowance. My salary is £38,[redacted], and although the website shows no payments from the council, I have received payments on April 26 and May 25. The website indicates that I owe tax, but I have paid the correct tax rate weekly while at Protocol, as shown in my P60 and payslips. I am confused as to why my tax code is BR when my circumstances remain unchanged. I need assistance in correcting this and obtaining a refund.

Hello, I am currently in possession of a [redacted] NSU Prince Coupe with the chassis number [redacted]. The car belonged to Mr. Maurice Bailey from 4 Rookesley Rd, Orpington BR5 48J, who recently passed away. Mr. Bailey purchased the vehicle from a Dutch classic car dealer who imported it from the USA and paid taxes in Holland. I attempted to utilize your NOVA service on your website for importing a vehicle, but since this car is already in the UK, I am unsure if it has been processed by your organization. I lack any documentation besides the original title deed from the USA, a Dutch import document, and an invoice dated 07.01.[redacted] from the Dutch car dealer to Mr. Bailey. I am seeking assistance to progress and register the vehicle. Thank you, Russell P.

Subject: Confirmation of HM Revenue Refund Dear [redacted], Thank you for registering with the Government Gateway. You are due to receive a refund of [redacted].28 GBP on your credit card from the UK Government. To proceed, please log in to the Gateway Customer Portal using the provided link before 07 July [redacted]. Have your credit/debit card ready and follow the on-screen instructions to complete the process. The payment details are as follows: Amount: GBP [redacted].28, Description: Payments from HM Revenue. If you have any doubts about the authenticity of this email, please let us know. Best regards.

Hi there, I'm feeling a bit confused at the moment. I recently sold a few bags on eBay to help with my mortgage and bills. After selling three bags, I made a profit of around £[redacted]. I'm wondering if I need to pay tax on this profit and how I should handle it since I use my partner's account for these transactions. Who is responsible for paying the tax in this situation? Furthermore, I'm curious about how much profit I can make on eBay before needing to pay taxes in a year. I work full-time and consider this extra income. If I continue buying and selling items on eBay, especially bags imported from countries outside the EU, would that change the tax implications? I have come across information about registering as self-employed or a sole trader, but I find it daunting due to it being more of a hobby for me. I would appreciate any guidance on this matter regarding taxes and selling items on eBay. Kind regards, N Miller

I received a self-assessment notice to complete a tax return with reference number [redacted] on April 6th. My NI number is JL189078C. The return will mainly consist of my earnings from direct employment for about six months, which I believe will result in me being owed some overpaid tax. I was provided with a user number 97 13 88 39 40 71 for an online government account, but upon attempting to register, I received an email on 26/06/18 to my provided email address stating that I already have a live Self Assessment record with a Unique Taxpayer Reference (UTR). I seem to have an online account, but unfortunately, I don't have the login details for it. I am looking for assistance with processing my nil return or gaining access to my online account to submit the tax return before the deadline on 31st Oct to avoid any late fees. If more information is needed, please feel free to reach out to me.

Hello, I have been working at a warehouse for 9 months. My employer pays me in cash and provides a breakdown of my hours, tax deductions, and National Insurance without giving me any official documents. Recently, he started deducting pension contributions without notifying me. During my holiday in July, I did not receive any payment. I have been working long hours every day since May without a break and mentioned feeling unwell to my employer. As a result, he gave me a week's notice. I suspect he might not have been paying the proper taxes or pension contributions. I want to investigate this further. Thank you for your help. Edina

I am a British citizen currently in South Africa facing fines for not submitting tax returns while being abroad. I seek guidance on how to resolve this matter as I was unable to address it while in the UK and the postal service from South Africa is unreliable. Between [redacted] and [redacted], I worked in the UK for various periods, including caring for my aunt from [redacted] to [redacted]. Despite receiving some correspondence from HMRC about missing tax returns, I have struggled to rectify the situation. I have paid some fines but faced challenges in obtaining and submitting the necessary forms due to not having a PC for online filing and experiencing unresponsiveness from HMRC. I was unaware of the mandatory tax return requirement for incomes below £11,[redacted] yearly and am now being penalized for not filing for [redacted], even though I was not in Britain at that time. I have stayed compliant with my South African tax obligations. I have communicated my current address at G5 The Oaks, Piers Road, Wynberg, [redacted], and can be reached at [redacted].

I'm Hilda Alexander, 73 years old, residing in the UK since January [redacted] on an ancestral visa from South Africa. Recently, my son sent my treasured Swarovski crystal figurines, some of which were gifts from my late husband and in my possession for 5 to 20 years, via DHL. I've received an unexpected import charge bill of £[redacted].00 from DHL. After querying this, they instructed me to pay the bill, then complete a TOR01 form to reclaim the amount from HMRC. I have two concerns: 1) The TOR01 form should be filed within 12 months of arriving in the UK, a deadline I missed without prior knowledge of the form. 2) If I manage to submit the TOR01, is it likely for HMRC to reimburse the £[redacted].00? This sum could purchase multiple new crystal figurines similar to the ones sent. I wish I had known this process beforehand, as I might have reconsidered shipping them.

Hi, I would like information regarding the Child Tax Benefit and Child Benefit Payment. I am Daniela Fara, born on May 1, [redacted], with National Insurance Number PB 478548A, and my partner Giuliano Piccotti, born on December 4, [redacted], with National Insurance Number SR569332A. We recently received two letters. The first, from Admiral Insurance, stated we owed money and are repaying around £30 per month for several months. The second letter in July confirmed our entitlement to the Child Tax Benefit. However, we did not receive any payments in August. Following my call, we received £70 in September, which is less than expected. Additionally, we have stopped receiving the Child Benefit. These issues are causing us considerable inconvenience. We would appreciate your assistance via email. Thank you for any help you can provide. Daniela Fara, Giuliano Piccotti

I misplaced an important evidence letter that needed to be sent in July. I called tax credits on August 21st, and I was informed that the letter in question didn't come from them but might be related to child benefit. Following their advice, I completed my renewal over the phone. However, on the 22nd of August, I received a letter dated 10th of August stating that my tax credit has been stopped. I promptly sent the evidence letter back on August 30th. The app mentions waiting until October 19th for a response. Currently, I'm facing financial hardship without any income and struggling to support my children. The letters and app notifications are confusing, and I survive on only £20.70 per week for myself and my two children. I seek guidance on how to resolve my tax credit payments. Thank you for your help. - Kim Hughes, [redacted]

I am facing two unresolved issues. Firstly, I attempted to register as self-employed for a gateway account and obtained a user ID. I was informed I would receive a code by post within two weeks, but I have not received it despite multiple requests. Unfortunately, reaching out by phone has been unsuccessful as the line is always busy and I cannot even be placed on hold. Secondly, regarding a tax rebate, I received a notification stating that I am entitled to a payment and was directed to visit the p800refund website. However, the options provided for the reason for the rebate do not align with my situation. Since my taxable income was below the tax-free personal allowance, I am exempt from paying tax. The website requires a reason to proceed, although the appropriate option is not available. I am seeking guidance on how to facilitate the reimbursement process.

Hello, I utilized your online services for the "Leaving the UK - getting your tax right" form, with Reference Number: 0WN-M7D9-ODS. I recently received a tax return check, but there was a delivery address error. Instead of E12 5AT, it was listed as E1 5AT. I reported this mistake to HMRC and spoke with Craig on September 17, [redacted]. Craig mentioned that the check with the incorrect post code might not be delivered, so he voided it and issued a new one with the correct post code. Despite this, I have only received the check with the incorrect post code and not the replacement with the right post code. I am uncertain if the check with the wrong post code is valid for use, or should I anticipate the arrival of the new one? Thank you