Background
Parousia advised an accountant who became subject to a serious HMRC investigation under Code of Practice 9 (COP 9), concerning incorrect company accounts and the associated corporate and personal tax returns submitted over a number of years.
Given the nature and extent of the inaccuracies, the matter carried significant financial and professional consequences, together with the potential risk of criminal investigation.
Our approach
Parousia undertook a detailed reconstruction and review of the historic accounting and taxation position, identifying the necessary corrections and quantifying the resulting tax liabilities.
Corrected accounts and tax computations were prepared, together with a comprehensive disclosure report for submission to HMRC explaining the relevant circumstances and irregularities.
Throughout the investigation, Parousia managed the dialogue and negotiations with HMRC, while demonstrating the client's full cooperation, acceptance of the errors and genuine contrition.
Outcome
Following detailed negotiations, an agreed settlement was reached with HMRC, bringing the investigation to a conclusion without escalation to criminal proceedings.
Parousia was also successful in negotiating substantially reduced penalties, reflecting the client’s cooperation and the extensive remedial work undertaken, thereby materially reducing the overall financial consequences of the investigation.