Working tax credit overpayment

Tonydrummachine

My husband and I have been informed by HMRC that we have been overpaid working tax credit. We have been to the Citizens' Advice Bureau and have a case worker. She wrote to HMRC last June to arrange re-payment options but they have not replied. HMRC have passed it on to Equita Limited to whom we have written by recorded delivery and to HMRC by recorded delivery. We have been unable to speak either to HMRC or Equita hence the letters.
How is it that HMRC do not accept bank statements as proof of income as this is the only way we can prove we were not overpaid? Why, also, have HMRC passed this matter on to a bailiff company when they have not replied to our case worker and no payment plan has been arranged? This is getting scary as we do not intend to give bailiffs access to our home or property. Can anyone help and have we done the right thing so far? Thanks in anticipation. Tonydrummachine.

Horseunderwater

Bank statements would not be accepted as they usually show net income after tax/Ni deducted. They need gross if you are both employed. However if self employed they need the net figure after expenses but prior to you paying tax & ni. Accepted income proof are a P60 at year end for PAYE or last payslip for the tax year. Simple accounts should do for Self empl. As to why they have not replied, you would need to ring them & ask.