Hmrc debt collector help

max91

So I’ve received a letter from pastdue collecting debt for hmrc (they are a collector for them).  I’m a bit confused as I wasn’t aware if the debt and the dates don’t match our accounting dates so I sent a prove it letter.  They’ve come back with an email stating the amount the dates (wrong) and owed to hmrc that’s it.  I’ve said that’s not evidence and they’ve asked me to look at the hmrc letters which were sent to me (don’t have any) and that’s it, they’ve said they are unable to send copies!  Is this legal, they’ve not proved it at all, I’ve no clue what it is and not sure on next step!  

TheSpectator

Ask HMRC direct what you owe

CliveOfIndia

Sounds a little odd.  Pastdue are one of the agencies used by HMRC ( https://www.gov.uk/guidance/what-will-happen-if-you-do-not-pay-your-tax-bill ), but I'd expect a "genuine" company such as them to be providing more accurate information.

I guess the first question is why you haven't received anything from HMRC to notify you of the debt in the first place.  Have they got your correct address?  Is this related to personal or business tax?  If it's business (I suspect it may be since you refer to "our accounting dates" ?) then what address do HMRC hold for your business?  It's fairly common for businesses to register their accountant's address - if that's the case, have you spoke to your accountant?

If none of these steps help, I'd be tempted to ring HMRC directly and find out what it's all about - especially if you're not aware of the debt.

Yes, it may be an admin mistake somewhere along the line, but an HMRC debt is potentially rather more serious than a simple unsecured consumer debt.  You need to find out all the facts, if that means speaking directly to HMRC then that's what you need to do.

DullGreyGuy

Given you speak about accounting dates that presumably means this is a company? Have you not spoken to your accountants? They can quickly check with HMRC if anything is overdue.