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HMRC criticised for time taken to process tax refunds

 

Newsletter issue – June 2025

HMRC is under scrutiny for taking over four months to process tax refunds, a process that previously took just a few weeks. The delays are particularly affecting employers' PAYE refunds and the Construction Industry Scheme (CIS). It has faced criticism from MPs regarding long call-waiting times, increasing complexity in the tax system, and declining public trust.

Some HMRC staff working on PAYE and CIS refunds have been involved in industrial action, contributing to processing delays. Businesses and individuals are facing significant cash flow challenges as a result.

To make matters worse, HMRC is set to shut down its free online tax filing service by March 2026. Small businesses that relied on this tool will have to pay for third-party software, with costs ranging from monthly subscriptions to one-off purchases exceeding £100.

The tax office claims to be addressing response times by allocating more staff, citing an 80% customer satisfaction rate. It also defends the closure of the filing service by arguing that newer commercial software offers a better user experience.

 

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Dakins Property Services

Great Results, Personable, High Integrity

Choice Events Limited

All at Beauchamp Charles are very helpful, approachable and easy to talk to. They keep me informed with key dates; I can feel totally confident that I won't ever miss any deadlines! Whoever I deal with, always deal with matters professionally and efficiently and if they are unavailable they get back to me promptly.

FT leisure Ltd

I have worked with Beauchamp Charles as our management accountants for over 20 years and have never received anything less than exceptional service. Their approach is both professional and personal. Finances and particularly tax strategies are a minefield for small businesses; Beauchamp Charles have in-depth knowledge of these area, which is comforting. They pay very close attention to our business activities and have provided financial strategies that have helped our company develop.

Fredrick Thomas Electrical and Maintenance

We have used Beauchamp Charles since company formation back in 1998. Beauchamp Charles offers us a one to one service as they are small enough to offer this dedicated service and large enough to do the work and offer best advice. They get to know us as individuals and a business, always giving sound advice. Frederick Thomas Electrical are in a stronger place thanks to the service we get from them.

Barnes Walker Landscapes Limited

We are a small business and had employed the same accountancy firm for many years. Two years ago we took the decision to switch to Beauchamp Charles after several othe local businesses recommended them very highly to us. We have not been disappointed with the service they have provided to us over these last two years.