HMRC is extending the Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) trial to new regions in the UK. ADR provides Small and Medium Enterprises (SME) with an alternative way of resolving tax disputes in compliance checks.
ADR is only available to SME's where a direct tax or VAT issue is in dispute and does not affect a taxpayer's right of review and appeal.
The process involves an independent person from HMRC, called a 'facilitator', who has not previously been involved in the dispute, working with both the taxpayer and the relevant HMRC official to try to broker an agreement. The Revenue claim that it has proven to be an effective way of resolving tax disputes in a speedier and efficient manner.
Initially, the extended trial was only available to SME's in North Wales and North West England. Following the successful launch however, HMRC will now accept applications from two more regions – London and South Wales/South West England. Those businesses interested in using the ADR process can check to ascertain whether or not the area they operate in is covered by the trial by downloading the relevant map from the Alternative Dispute Resolution trial for Small and Medium Enterprise customers page via the HMRC website.
To be considered for the ADR process applicants should call 01492 523747 during the hours of 09:00 – 16:00, Monday to Friday.
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