HMRC gives go ahead for subsitute SA returns in 2008

Advisers will still be able to file clients’ tax returns in a paper format in
2008, following concerns that computer-generated returns would have to be filed
online.

The tax community had voiced worries that advisers would not be given the
choice to file paper returns that had been generated by computer in 2008, known
as substitute returns.

HMRC has made changes to the filing of tax returns following recommendations
in the Carter Review of HMRC’s online services.

From April 2008 paper returns would have to be filed by 31 October, while
online returns could still be filed by 31 January.

Paper returns put together on computer (substitute returns) are still
prevalent among tax advisers, but HMRC has agreed to allow them to create
returns for clients in a PDF file format that can be returned in paper to HMRC.

‘There was the prospect of filing handwritten returns, so this allows an
approved form to be returned – it’s a significant decision,’ said
ICAEW
tax faculty deputy chairman
Paul
Aplin .

‘We welcome the pragmatic solution announced today and we would encourage
members of the seven professional bodies represented by the e-Group to
participate in the current survey so that we can work with HMRC to remove more
obstacles to easy and effective e-filing,’ said AAT president Brian Palmer.

Accounting bodies has been discussing with HMRC, in the Working Together
e-group, the implications of the Carter Review.

Further reading:

Taxman relaxes online filing deadline

Softworld preview: it is all in the
preparation

Accounting bodies work together on SA
filing