At the start of January 2022, HMRC announced an extension to the tax return penalty trigger dates. It’s now released further details concerning agents delayed due to COVID, partnership returns and more. What do you need to know?

Agents

Many taxpayers use accountants or tax advisors (collectively referred to as agents) to file their returns. If a taxpayer has taken all reasonable steps to get their affairs in order to allow their agent to meet the filing deadline, and that agent has been delayed due to COVID-19, then the agent delay may constitute a reasonable excuse.

Partners

It’s not just SA100 returns that are included in the penalty reprieve. Individual partners will also not be charged a late filing penalty in respect of a 2020/21 partnership return (SA800) as long as the return is filed online on or before 28 February.

Tax credits

Tax credits customers should still make their declarations by 31 January; otherwise, the tax credits will be calculated based on the information held by HMRC. However, if the declaration is submitted by 28 February, HMRC will use its discretionary powers to re-make the decision if the delay was due to COVID-19.

Report by phone

Note that figures reported after 31 January 2022 may need to be reported by phone (0345 300 3900) and not via the online system.

Mixed funds

Finally, the deadline for nominations of special mixed funds has also been moved to 28 February 2022.

This article has been reproduced by kind permission of Indicator – FL Memo Ltd. For details of their tax-saving products please visit www.indicator-flm.co.uk or call 01233 653500.