Covid-19 tax worries: Don't Suffer in Silence

Tuesday March 17, 2020

It's tough enough to keep your head above water when you're running your own business. Small businesses and the self-employed are so often among the worst affected when the economy takes a hit, and the government's been waking up to that fact.

It's becoming more obvious each day that the COVID-19 outbreak is going to have an impact on us all in one way or another, leading to many small businesses worrying over how they'll pay their tax. HMRC's new coronavirus helpline is designed to offer support, advice and practical help for those already struggling or concerned.

As many as 2,000 new, trained call handlers are being made available as needed, and any self-employed person or business can get in touch for help. The assistance on offer includes:

• Instalment arrangements to spread out the costs.
• Suspension of any ongoing debt collection proceedings.
• Dropping penalties and interest for those having trouble paying what they owe or contacting HMRC.

The helpline can be reached on 0800 0159 559. Lines are open Monday to Friday from 8am to 8pm, and on Saturdays from 8am to 4pm, excluding Bank Holidays.

Remember that RIFT Accounting is always here to help. At the first sign of trouble – or even just if you're worried about what might happen in the future – send up a flare and we'll leap into action.

In the meantime, stay safe, stay indoors where possible and check back here for updates.