Lee Sharpe looks at the various methods and sources that HMRC uses to compile data about everyone.
HMRC is fast becoming more interested in amassing data about UK taxpayers than in collecting ‘boring’ tax revenues. Set out below are some of main routes that HMRC uses to ‘get to know its customers’.
General information powers
Put simply, HMRC has formal powers to request any information or documentation ‘reasonably required to check a taxpayer’s tax position’ (FA 2008, Sch 36).
HMRC takes a very broad approach to what it thinks is ‘reasonably required’. Note in particular:
- This power is not limited just to information on businesses, or just income tax, but basically applies to virtually any head of tax.
- It is not
