Nudge letters target R&D tax fraud, business asset disposal relief and lettings

HMRC has recently launched three more one-to-many letter campaigns.

Some 2 024 letters were issued during the two weeks beginning 23 January 2023 to companies that have made research and development claims. HMRC is asking company directors to review their previous claims using a checklist to ensure the information they have provided is complete and correct and if there is an error to make amendments as necessary.

The letter also warns that HMRC may need to open enquiries and possibly reject claims if they are found to be incorrect.

Another group of letters targets short-term property letting. These will be sent between February and March 2023.

The letter says that HMRC’s records show the person may have earned income from short-term property lettings and not told HMRC about it. They are requested to complete a ‘certificate of tax position’ within 30 days and tick the box...