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Frequently Asked Questions

Defending Your Business Against HMRC Enforcement Actions

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How long does it take to set up a Time to Pay arrangement?

Time to Pay arrangements can typically be set up within a few days, depending on the complexity of your situation. I aim to work quickly to secure manageable payment plans that avoid enforcement action.

Can you help with debts related to different tax regimes (e.g. PAYE, VAT)?

Yes, I specialise in managing debts across multiple tax regimes, including VAT, PAYE, CIS, Corporation Tax and Self Assessment as well as less common heads of duty (SDLT, MGD etc). My in-depth knowledge of these areas allows me to offer expert guidance tailored to your situation.

What should I do if HMRC are threatening enforcement action?

If you receive a notice of enforcement, it's crucial to act quickly. I can help you negotiate with HMRC to prevent actions such as TCOG (asset seizure) or Winding Up by securing a Time to Pay arrangement and creating a sustainable payment plan.

How much are Taking Control of Goods enforcement fees?

Fee 1 (Notice of Enforcement): Fixed fee of £75.00

Fee 2 (Enforcement Stage - chargeable on first visit to premises): A fixed fee of £235.00 + 7.5% of the principal debt to be recovered that exceeds £1,500.00

Fee 3 (Sale or Disposal Stage - chargeable on first visit to remove/sell assets): A fixed fee of £110.00 + 7.5% of the principal debt recovered that exceeds £1,500.00

Example - a £20000.00 debt would attract fees of £1697.50 upon first post Notice of Enforcement visit to premises - even if payment in full is made at that time. Fee 3 would be an additional £1,497.50

For more details on the TCOG process and fees, you can refer to the HMRC internal manuals:

Enforcement action: taking control of goods (TCoG): the Notice of Enforcement (DMBM657050)

Enforcement action: taking control of goods (TCoG): fees (DMBM657160)

Can you help reduce my debt?

No, I only advise upon the outstanding debt as it stands, any amendments to the liability will need to be done by yourself or your accountant, though I do recommend that you seek to secure a Time to Pay whilst any amendments are being processed. All overdue tax returns must be submitted before I can assist you. HMRC will not agree any Time to Pay where there are any outstanding returns.

What can you do for my business that I can’t do myself?

In many straightforward cases, businesses can contact HMRC directly and agree a Time to Pay arrangement without external support. I always encourage clients to try this first where appropriate. However, where a proposal has already been rejected, enforcement action is being considered or the situation is complex, time-sensitive, or unclear I can provide structured guidance based on over 30 years’ experience in debt enforcement and negotiation processes, helping you understand how HMRC is likely to assess your case and what approach is most likely to succeed.

How are you different from others who offer a similar service?

In a word “experience”. I was with Debt Management department of HMRC for 33 years, undertaking tens of thousands of visits to businesses in a similar position as yours. There are few sets of circumstances that I have not encountered previously. My site may not be as slick as others but my knowledge is something that cannot be replicated.

What are the costs of advice from OFW Solutions Ltd ?

I pride myself on offering transparent and upfront pricing, ensuring that you have a clear understanding of the costs involved. Ideally it is better if the initial consultation is Face to Face but depending on your location it may be that a Teams consultation is the better option, please get in touch and we can have a no obligation chat to decide the best way to progress to ensure that the help I can give is right for you. The calculator below gives a breakdown of the fees.

Initial Face to Face or Teams consultation fee £ 250.00

Success Fee - 1% for the first £ 50k and 0.75% for remaining amount over £ 50k

Note: The initial consultation fee is charged upfront. The success fees apply only if a Time to Pay arrangement is successfully agreed.

Do you offer ongoing support?

If you feel that you would require more than a one off consultation please contact me to discuss your circumstances, I am happy to discuss a bespoke package with you.

I am an agent – can you help multiple of my clients?

Please get in touch, I offer retention agreements for agents.

Contact us today