HMRC Postal response time ?

AndyCF

I was not really sure which section of the forum to post this in. I did Google this and looked at some figures (eventually when I found them) although it did not really answer my question.

Summary is I had to send a letter to them regarding 'Overpayment Relief' as I could not use the R40.

The letter was in the correct format and I enclosed copies of relevant paper too, with an obvious comment that originals were available as were more details etc etc

The question is simple: What is the average response time please ? As its a letter someone is going to have to scan/read it I suspect then decide what to do.

I've got a vague idea in my head to allow about 4 to 6 weeks for it to be looked at and digested and a response possibly posted out shortly after that, so say 6-8 weeks to hear back, even if the response is "more info needed" or something.

Is that a reasonable guestimate ? I only ask as I've not had to write directly to them previously so am unaware of likely response times, plus hearing from members here who have 'real world' experience of it rather than some provided 'performance facts/figures' would be helpful.

If it means anything the sum due (if all is good) is small.

Thanks.

jimmo

I think you are being a tad optimistic. Whilst it may not fit your situation exactly the following link suggests that a letter sent this week requesting an SA amendment will not be answered until early December.
Overpayment Relief is rather more complicated than an in-date SA amendment so I rather think you will be lucky if you receive a reply this side of Christmas.http://www.hmrc.gov.uk/tools/progress-tool/self-assessment.htm

AndyCF

Thanks @jimmo

It was not me being in a hurry, I realised after posting I was (possibly not far off) asking "how long is a piece of string" , to coin a phrase.

Was more as I say 'real world' experiences, what I'll do then is if I have not heard anything at all, attempt to 'check its status' say mid-December , at least that way I'll know I suppose.

I did see that tool but it did not say anything about Overpayment Relief, so I ignored it. Thinking again this is not -that- different to 'get a refund' or 'check you have dealt with an amendment' , however in my case it was not quite that simple, it was a PBA (PBA not PPI) tax paid that in theory is due back. Bank taxed it at source (letters etc prove)

HHarry

Slightly different issue, but I sent a letter off on the 31st July to the SA team regarding paying the final taxes on my Mums estate and had a reply last week.

So 6-7 weeks maybe?

AndyCF

HHarry wrote: »

So 6-7 weeks maybe?

Thanks.

Despite what I said about December I think I'll 'attempt' to check on its status say Mid-November. No harm in checking I suppose.