Why the client needed our help
HMRC had assessed that our client, an Irish bonded warehouse, owed VAT in excess of £100,000. It alleged that stocks of duty-suspended beer and wine that the warehouse claimed were shipped from the UK to Spain, never actually left the UK and had been diverted for home use.
How we helped
Using our vast experience in this area and extensive network of trade contacts, we appealed the assessment and persuaded HMRC to withdraw it without needing to involve a tax tribunal (which is normally required for such disputes). We did this by providing tangible evidence that the goods in question did indeed arrive in Spain and showing that HMRC’s assertions were wrong.
The outcome
Our client did not have to pay the bill and, because we settled outside a tribunal, we saved them around £50-£60k in legal costs. In addition, we helped them to adjust their compliance system to mitigate any further risk. They remain a client and regularly refer us to others in need tax dispute advice.
I have been doing business with Andy for over two years now. In that time I have found him to be very knowledgeable in relation to HMRC matters and excellent in explaining them in layman terms.
Harry Golden, Irish bonded warehouse owner
