VAT Disputes and Investigations Support When HMRC Comes Calling
An HMRC compliance check or VAT investigation can disrupt your entire business. ABM Chartered Accountants provides expert representation from the first letter through to resolution, protecting your position and working to minimise any penalties, interest, or additional VAT.
Expert Support When HMRC Investigates Your VAT
HMRC is investing heavily in VAT compliance, with thousands of new enforcement staff and increasingly sophisticated data analysis. Whether you have received a compliance check letter, face a penalty assessment, or disagree with HMRC’s interpretation of the law, you need qualified representation from the start. ABM Chartered Accountants provides exactly that.
Our ICAEW and ACCA qualified accountants handle every stage of a VAT dispute, from responding to initial enquiries and gathering evidence to negotiating settlements and preparing tribunal appeals. We know how HMRC operates, what they look for, and how to protect your position throughout the process.
What Our VAT Disputes Service Covers
From responding to HMRC’s first letter to representing you at tribunal, here is how ABM Chartered Accountants protects your business when a VAT dispute arises.
HMRC Compliance Checks
Representing your business during HMRC VAT inspections and responding to compliance check enquiries.
Penalty Appeals
Challenging VAT penalties including late filing, late payment, and inaccuracy charges from HMRC.
Voluntary Disclosure
Making unprompted disclosures to HMRC to correct past errors and reduce your penalty exposure.
Dispute Resolution
Negotiating with HMRC through alternative dispute resolution to reach agreement without tribunal.
Tribunal Support
Preparing your case and supporting you through the First-tier Tax Tribunal appeal process.
Compliance Review
Reviewing your VAT records and processes to identify and fix risks before HMRC finds them.
Protect Your Business and Reduce Your Exposure
Handling an HMRC investigation without professional support almost always makes things worse. Responding too quickly, providing too much information, or accepting an assessment you should have challenged can all increase your liability. ABM Chartered Accountants manages every communication with HMRC on your behalf, making sure nothing is said or submitted that weakens your position.
Early intervention also reduces costs. An unprompted disclosure before HMRC discovers an error attracts a lower penalty than one they find themselves. A well-prepared appeal can overturn a penalty entirely. We look for every legitimate way to reduce what you owe and resolve the matter as quickly as possible.
VAT Dispute and Investigation Support Across the UK
Based in Canary Wharf, London, ABM Chartered Accountants represents businesses throughout the UK in VAT disputes and HMRC investigations. Our team handles everything remotely or in person as needed.
VAT Dispute Support for Every Industry
We represent businesses facing VAT disputes in construction, retail, hospitality, property, e-commerce, professional services, and healthcare. HMRC targets specific sectors for compliance checks, and our team knows what to expect.
Why Businesses Choose ABM for VAT Disputes
Chartered Dispute Expertise
ICAEW and ACCA qualified with HMRC dispute experience.
Penalties Challenged and Reduced
Every assessment reviewed for appeal or negotiation grounds.
Your Position Protected
All HMRC communication managed so nothing is compromised.
How We Work
Initial Consultation
Set Up and Onboard
Ongoing Support
We provide regular reviews and proactive advice to keep your finances optimised and HMRC-compliant.
Get in Touch Today
Whether you need help with your tax return, payroll, VAT, or business advisory, our qualified UK accountants are ready to provide clear, practical guidance for your specific needs.
Book a Consultation
Fill in the form below and one of our expert accountants will contact you promptly to discuss your accounting and tax requirements.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Here are answers to the VAT dispute questions we hear most often. Contact our team for immediate support.
What triggers a VAT investigation?
HMRC may open a compliance check for a range of reasons, including unusual VAT return figures, large repayment claims, industry-specific risk targeting, random selection, or information received from third parties. ABM Chartered Accountants helps you respond properly from the start.
How far back can HMRC investigate?
HMRC can normally go back four years for innocent errors. If the error is classed as careless, they can look back six years. For deliberate or fraudulent behaviour, HMRC can investigate up to 20 years of VAT returns.
Can I appeal a VAT penalty?
Yes. You have 30 days from receiving a penalty notice to appeal. ABM Chartered Accountants reviews the penalty, identifies grounds for appeal including reasonable excuse arguments, and submits the appeal to HMRC or requests an independent review on your behalf.
What is alternative dispute resolution?
Alternative dispute resolution is an HMRC-facilitated mediation process where an independent mediator helps you and HMRC reach agreement without going to tribunal. ABM Chartered Accountants has experience representing clients at ADR meetings and achieving positive outcomes.
Should I make a voluntary disclosure?
If you have identified an error in your VAT returns, making an unprompted disclosure before HMRC discovers it can significantly reduce the penalty. ABM Chartered Accountants advises on whether disclosure is appropriate and manages the process to protect your position.
How much does dispute support cost?
Fees depend on the complexity and stage of the dispute. We offer transparent pricing and can agree a fixed fee for defined stages of work. Contact ABM Chartered Accountants for a confidential discussion about your specific situation.