10. They will send you a bill – even if they know you are appealing

So here’s the deal – the investigation is coming to what you think will be the end. HMRC sends the closing documents saying the investigation is closed and summarising both their findings and the tax they consider due.

You have the right to appeal these figures, but even if the investigating officer knows that you are going to appeal and you sign the appeal requests and send them back in straight away – you will still receive a very official looking final bill.

HMRC say, “Well sometimes documents cross in the post.” but the real reason is that receiving a large tax bill is a deeply distressing experience and some people – when faced with that official looking document – just give up and reach for their cheque book.

I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again: the bullying and underhand tactics of HMRC cost innocent people their businesses, their cars, their homes and their marriages. It’s an evil system that takes advantage of people who cannot afford to be represented.