HMRC has warned taxpayers to be alert to fraudsters as the self assessment deadline is fast approaching.
The self assessment deadline of 31 January usually means we see an increase in associated scams where fraudsters take advantage of individuals with busy lives who don’t think to question the method of contact and fall victim to a scam.
In the past year alone, HRMC has seen an increase of 16.7% in scam referrals. Almost 150,000 were received in the year to November 20 and a significant proportion were fake tax rebate claims.
It is worth noting that HMRC say that they never ask for personal or financial information via text message, nor will they leave voicemails threatening legal action or arrest.
Please stay vigilant if you receive communication claiming to be from HMRC that asks for any personal information or is offering a tax rebate. You can find useful advice on GOV.UK to help identify if it is scam activity.
If you have any questions regarding self assessment please do get in touch, but bear with us as it is a busy time of year, on 01242 776000 or tax@randall-payne.co.uk.
