In the run-up to the tax return deadline, HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC) released a list of wonderful excuses it has received from those who fail to meet the deadline for filing self-assessment tax returns – some of which have been literally out of this world.

Angela MacDonald, HMRC Director General of Customer Services, said: “Each year we’re making it easier and more intuitive for our customers to complete their tax return, but each year we still come across some questionable excuses, whether that’s blaming a busy touring schedule or seeing aliens. “However, help will always be provided for those who have a genuine excuse for not submitting their return on time.”

Among the most recent excuses are:
• I couldn’t file my return on time as my wife has been seeing aliens and won’t let me enter the house.
• I’ve been far too busy touring the country with my one-man play.
•  My ex-wife left my tax return upstairs, but I suffer from vertigo and can’t go upstairs to retrieve it.
• My business doesn’t really do anything.
•  I spilt coffee on it.

As well as excuses for filing their tax return late, HMRC has also revealed some questionable items which taxpayers have tried to claim as an expense:
• A three-piece suite for my partner to sit on when I’m doing my accounts.
• Birthday drinks at a Glasgow nightclub.
• Vet fees for a rabbit.
• Hotel room service – for candles and prosecco.
• £4.50 for sausage and chips meal expenses for 250 days.

Not surprisingly, all the above excuses and expense claims were thrown out.

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“It is unfair to make honest taxpayers pick up the bill for other people’s spurious claims, so HMRC will only accept sincere claims such as legitimate expenses for a job,” added Ms MacDonald. “If you think you might miss the 31st January deadline, get in touch with
us now – the earlier we’re contacted, the more help we can offer.”

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https://www.hastingsindependentpress.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2017/05/business.jpghttps://www.hastingsindependentpress.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2017/05/business.jpgHIPBusinessHM Revenue & Customs,HMRC,taxIn the run-up to the tax return deadline, HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC) released a list of wonderful excuses it has received from those who fail to meet the deadline for filing self-assessment tax returns – some of which have been literally out of this world. Angela MacDonald, HMRC Director...The Hastings & St Leonards non-profit community newspaper