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The client from hell

22 June 2006 / Neil Warren
Issue: 4063 / Categories: Comment & Analysis , HMRC powers , VAT
NEIL WARREN considers the VAT problems of working with a non-compliant client.

IT IS THE moment that every accountant dreads: you are excited at the prospect of working with a friendly new client who appears to be running a lucrative and well-organised business. But then suddenly it hits you with the force of a Steven Gerrard volley — you are dealing with the client from hell!

In this article I will consider the VAT issues of dealing with such a client the problems he can cause the reaction of HMRC and the approach that advisers can adopt to help the situation.

Outstanding VAT returns

The basic way to comply with HMRC rules as far as VAT is concerned is simple: pay the right tax at the right time. If that philosophy is carried through on a consistent basis in the current climate it is possible that a business (particularly small businesses in a low risk trade...

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