Tax help for those affected by foot and mouth outbreak

HMRC appreciates that some individuals and businesses will find it difficult to meet their tax obligations to us due to the recent foot and mouth outbreak. HMRC will:

defer collection of taxes and duties or agree instalment arrangements where taxpayers are unable to pay as a result of severe difficulty.

suspend debt collection proceedings

defer compliance checks and investigations

provide help and advice in dealing with other practical tax matters arising from the outbreak

where appropriate consider using the powers available to give up interest and surcharges on tax paid which is paid late due to the outbreak.

A new Helpline has been set up to support those affected by foot and mouth disease. It will enable individuals and businesses affected by the outbreak to get fast, practical help and advice on tax matters.

The Helpline is in addition to our other telephone contact numbers.

Kitty Ussher, Economic Secretary to the Treasury said: "We want to offer help to people who are being affected by the outbreak of foot and mouth disease and the restrictions on the movement of livestock. Some of them may be facing cash flow difficulties and our new Helpline will be able to offer them fast, practical advice on their tax affairs."