Oh No! Tax help please

zipzap

I received a letter today saying that the taxman is taking me to sheriff court because I was late in making a payment in my agreement. This comes with on the same day that my second payment on account was due so obviously I can't make that.

I am aware of my obligations to HMRC but we have had several disasters and so all this years tax money went on them.

I phoned and told them that I would be able to pay in installments before January (when the tax return for the tax they want is due) but I just don't have the full amount now. They were not remotely interested and said they would proceed to court.

I also said that we are in the process of selling our house and so we will be able to pay the full balance in the near future - again they were not interested.

I am now sick with the thought of being taken to court.

Does anyone have any ideas or experiences?

ZZ