I’m sure you know that the HM Revenue and Customs deadline was January 31st this year, and you are probably one of the many companies that submitted on time, in which case sit back and enjoy some of the following tax return excuses (they really were used). If you DIDN’T send your submission on time, save yourself the £100 fine and get us to help you next time.
Top excuses for 2020
These are some of the top excuses used in 2020, ranging from junior school status to the ridiculous.
• My dog ate the post again
• My husband told me the deadline was the 31st March
• I will be abroad on deadline day with no internet access so will be unable to file
• My mother-in-law is a witch and put a curse on me
• I’m too short to reach the post box
Which is your favourite?
We came across some really strange expense claims excuses, especially when chasing our clients. Here are some of the most out of the ordinary expense claims:
• Claiming £4.50 for sausage and chips meal expenses for 250 days
• A carpenter claiming £900 for a 55-inch TV and sound bar to help him price his jobs.
• £40 on extra woolly underwear, for five years.
• £756 for my pet dog insurance.
• A family holiday to Nigeria.
After reading through the excuses maybe recognition is due for the level of imagination and effort!!
Furthermore, In case you’re wondering, no the taxman didn’t let these get past! If you ever wonder what you could get included in your business tax returns, do ask us first!
What if my excuse is genuine?
HM Revenue and Customs will treat those with genuine excuses leniently, as they focus their penalties on those who persistently fail to complete their tax returns. The excuse must be genuine and we might ask for evidence.
Further penalties
If the excuse is reasonable and accepted by the 31 January deadline you will avoid the following penalties:
• An initial £100 fixed penalty, which applies even if there is no tax to pay, or if the tax due is paid on time.
• After 3 months additional daily penalties of £10 per day may be charged up to a maximum of £900
• After 6 months, a further penalty of 5% of the tax due or £300, whichever is greater.
• After 12 months, another 5% or £300 charge, whichever is greater.
In future if you think you might miss the deadline 31 January, get in touch with us. Remember the earlier we’re contacted, the more we can help. Call us on 020 8 532 9843 and book your https://alanpatient.com/free-initial-consultation/
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