12 January 2012

HMRC Sets Sights on Electricians in Tax Crackdown

 

HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) is to turn its attention to electricians as part of its ongoing crackdown on tax evasion.

Linda Warner commented that The Electrician’s Tax Safe Plan (ETSP), due to be launched in February, follows a similar scheme for plumbers earlier in 2011. As before, the ETSP will offer reduced penalties for electricians who come forward to declare any unpaid tax.

Once this disclosure opportunity has ended, HMRC will target electricians who have not come forward. Those caught out by HMRC at a later date will face significantly higher penalties, making it all the more important for electricians with undeclared tax to make the most of the disclosure opportunity while it is in effect.

HMRC is defining electricians as anyone who installs, maintains and tests electrical systems, equipment and appliances under stringent safety regulations.

Last year’s Plumber’s Tax Safe Plan (PTSP) campaign brought in £328,000 through around 600 voluntary disclosures. It also saw the arrest of five plumbers who failed to make use of the PTSP.

For further advice please contact Linda Warner or Liz Beadsley.