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What to do if…
you receive a tax audit notice and the response deadline is soon

Produced and maintained by PanicStation.org Published: Last reviewed: Editorial policy UK guide

Short answer

Do not ignore it. Today, verify that the notice is genuinely from HMRC, then contact HMRC or use the official GOV.UK route to confirm what is needed and ask for more time if you cannot meet the deadline.

Do not do these things

  • Do not miss the deadline without contacting HMRC; they may use formal powers, issue penalties, or proceed using the information they have.
  • Do not assume a letter is genuine just because it looks official; if anything feels off, check it using GOV.UK guidance before using unexpected contact details.
  • Do not scan a QR code or follow a link from the letter until you have checked whether that route is genuine.
  • Do not send original documents unless the notice or HMRC officer specifically asks for originals; copies are usually safer.
  • Do not send a rushed, inaccurate reply just to say something; ask for clarification or more time if you need it.
  • Do not throw away the envelope, reference numbers, or enclosures.
  • Do not send a large bundle of unrelated records; focus on what the notice asks for and explain briefly if something is not available yet.

What to do now

  1. Capture the essentials from the notice.
    Write down the deadline date, HMRC reference number, tax year or period, what documents or explanations are requested, and any named HMRC team or officer.

  2. Check whether the notice is genuine.
    Use GOV.UK guidance to check the letter type. If the letter includes a QR code, check the QR code using GOV.UK guidance before scanning it or entering details.

  3. Use the safest contact route.
    If you are satisfied the notice is genuine, use the contact details on the notice to confirm exactly what HMRC wants, where to send it, the format needed, and whether copies are acceptable. If you are not satisfied it is genuine, use the relevant GOV.UK HMRC contact route instead and ask whether the letter is real.

  4. Ask for more time before the deadline if you need it.
    Say that you intend to respond, but cannot meet the current date. Ask for an extension, give a brief factual reason, and suggest a realistic new date. HMRC may agree if there is a valid reason.

  5. Create a simple response folder.
    Save a copy or photo of the notice, your notes, and a checklist of each item requested. Label each document you plan to send with the reference number and tax period, and keep a copy of everything.

  6. Send only what is requested, in a trackable way.
    If responding by post, use a service that gives proof of posting or tracking and keep the receipt. If responding online, save upload confirmations, screenshots, and copies of the files sent.

  7. If records are missing, say so clearly.
    List what you can provide now, what is missing, why it is missing, and when you expect to provide it. Do not guess figures or invent documents.

  8. If the notice is formal, get help quickly.
    If the letter says “information notice”, mentions “Schedule 36”, demands records by a fixed date, or you are unsure whether it is a formal notice, contact a qualified tax adviser or accountant promptly. Do not let the deadline pass without contacting HMRC.

  9. If the request is large or technical, line up help without delaying contact.
    This is especially important for a business, VAT, PAYE, Corporation Tax, multiple tax years, or records you do not understand. You can still make the first contact yourself to confirm receipt and ask for more time.

What can wait

  • You do not need to fully resolve the audit today; the urgent tasks are to verify the notice, avoid silence, clarify what is required, and ask for more time if needed.
  • You do not need to decide whether you agree with HMRC’s view today.
  • You do not need to rebuild years of records in one sitting; start with the exact items requested.
  • You do not need to choose a long-term tax strategy before making the first safe contact.

Important reassurance

An HMRC compliance check or enquiry letter does not automatically mean you have done something wrong. Clear contact, careful copies, and proof of what you send can reduce the chance of a preventable problem while you work out the next step.

Scope note

These are first steps only. Later decisions about tax positions, penalties, formal notices, appeals, or settlements may need specialist tax or legal help.

Important note

This is general information, not legal, tax, financial, or professional advice. HMRC letters vary by tax type, notice type, and individual facts. If you are unsure what you have received, the sums are large, or the notice appears formal, get qualified advice promptly.

Additional Resources

Closely connected guides that may be useful during the same situation or its immediate aftermath.

About this guide

This guide was produced and is maintained by PanicStation.org using its published editorial process. Official and specialist sources are checked where relevant, and AI-assisted tools may be used for drafting, organisation, and consistency checks. The site operator remains responsible for publication, revision, and removal decisions.

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