HMRC are running a pilot scheme to test the impact of working with private sector debt collection agencies.
The firms will take some debts across a range of taxes covering both businesses and individuals. They will be involved in resolution work only and will not do any home or face-to-face visits or litigation work as part of the trial.
Before the Revenue transfers any debt to an agency, it will send a letter to the debtor explaining what is about to happen and providing further opportunity to pay or reach an agreement with the department.
HMRC say that the security of taxpayer data will be paramount for the pilot, which is to run for six months and will be subject to a full evaluation.
The taxman is are keen to receive feedback and views on how the trial is working: comments should be emailed to Anne Hassall.