Self Assessment Helpline Closed

HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC) will close its self-assessment helpline for three months over the summer, the tax authority has announced. The helpline, which provides support to taxpayers with their self-assessment tax returns, will be closed from 12 June to 4 September.

HMRC said the closure is part of a trial to see whether customers can be supported more effectively through its online services. The trial will see customers who call the helpline redirected to HMRC's website, where they can access guidance and support materials. Customers will also be able to use HMRC's digital assistant or webchat service to get help with their queries.

HMRC said the closure of the helpline will free up 350 advisers to answer urgent calls on other lines and answer customer correspondence. The helpline will reopen on 4 September, in time for the self-assessment deadline on 31 January 2024.

The closure of the helpline has been met with criticism from some tax experts, who have warned that it could leave taxpayers struggling to get the support they need. The Chartered Institute of Taxation (CIOT) said the closure was "a major blow" to taxpayers who rely on the helpline for support.

"The helpline is a vital lifeline for many taxpayers, particularly those who are self-employed or who have complex tax affairs," said CIOT tax policy director Helen Morrissey. "Closing it for three months will be a major inconvenience and could lead to people making mistakes on their tax returns."

HMRC has said that it will be monitoring the trial closely and will review the decision to close the helpline if it finds that it is having a negative impact on taxpayers.

In the meantime, taxpayers who need help with their self-assessment tax returns are advised to use HMRC's online services or to contact a tax adviser.

Internet link: BBC Website