HMRC Criminal Investigations

If HMRC suspects tax fraud they have extensive powers with which to investigate and can conduct criminal proceedings. Failure to comply appropriately to an HMRC criminal investigation can have serious consequences, including significant fines and even prison. We have the experience and expertise to respond swiftly and provide advice and forensic accounting analysis.

Managing an HMRC criminal investigation

There are certain circumstances in which HMRC may choose to conduct a criminal investigation. These include cases where systematic fraud or gang crime is suspected, situations where the individual concerned holds a position of trust or authority or where there has been deliberate concealment, deception, conspiracy or cases involving the use of false or forged documents. In some cases, HMRC may escalate a civil investigation into a criminal one.

The Fraud Investigation Service is the merged specialist investigations and criminal investigations departments of HMRC, and they deal with the most serious cases of suspected tax fraud. HMRC powers of investigation include the ability to execute search warrants, make arrests, forfeit assets and compulsorily obtain information and documentation through production orders and disclosure notices/orders. Failing to properly respond to an HMRC criminal investigation can have serious repercussions, including significant financial and reputational damage, or even prison time for individuals.

If you are facing a HMRC criminal investigation, it is highly likely that you will need the assistance of a forensic accountant with experience of tax investigations and HMRC, and with the ability to carry out a detailed analysis of large amounts of information and data quickly and accurately. Our expertise in this area enables us to assist in a variety of ways, including dealing with HMRC and providing expert analysis and evidence. We will deal with matters swiftly and in the strictest of confidence.

If you would like to discuss an HMRC criminal tax investigation, please get in touch.