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HMRC’s assessment of the impact of the introduction of real-time information (RTI) on small employers is inadequate, according to the Low Incomes Tax Reform Group (LITRG).
The charity has voiced concern that firms without internet access or that lack computer literacy will experience difficulty in fulfiling their PAYE duties under RTI, which is scheduled to become obligatory from October 2013, after the pilot scheme began last month.
LITRG technical director Robin Williamson said he was concerned that older employers, those with disabilities and bosses who cannot afford the cost of computers and broadband subscriptions will face ‘additional burdens owing to the increased filing requirements under RTI’.
HMRC have produced an impact note that reviews difficulties that small and very small firms could face when RTI and its associated obligations enter into force.
But the document ‘goes nowhere near far enough in recognising the needs of those small employers who remain digitally excluded', said Mr Williamson, who urged the tax authorities to ‘state what reasonable adjustments [they] will make’ to comply with the Equality Act 2010.
It isn't just "older employers" who will struggle. We have a number of young clients (<30 years old) who have PCs and are quite happy using them for Facebook, games, web browsing, etc, but ask them to download a file or e-mail an attachment and they hit a brick wall.
Throw in the fact they are dealing with HMRC and they will just ignore it.