The taxman is going down the pub, as a new campaign tailored to the needs of public houses seeks to raise awareness of their tax obligations.
Thousands of publicans across the UK will soon receive letters from HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC) detailing the relevant tax forms and deadlines whilst highlighting the common mistakes many pub owners make when filing a return.
The letters will offer opportunities for landlords to seek out additional help, particularly those who have just started a pub or may be new to the industry.
"We recognise that businesses need information and support, which is tailored to meet their individual circumstances," said Margaret Doyle, senior business manager at HMRC.
"We will be working with individual pubs and the industry as a whole to help public houses pay the right tax at the right time and to provide information about the schemes we offer, which can simplify VAT matters."
The awareness campaign will be backed up by visits to premises by VAT assurance officers, which help both ways, HMRC claims.
The tax body says that while its officers can help a publican address specific problems and concerns, the organisation will concomitantly gain a better understanding of how businesses and the industry work.
Once all visits have been completed, HMRC will disclose its findings with leading trade bodies and offer additional support to the trade.
Source www.startups.co.uk
