03/06/2026
How HMRC – as well as tax advisers – can support vulnerable taxpayers and those with complex needs
Advisers – how often do you encounter someone who is struggling with their tax and needs some extra handholding to resolve a problem, but is unable to afford professional advice?
Jointly written by LITRG and HMRC, June's edition of Tax Adviser magazine contains a useful feature on HMRC's Extra Support Team (EST) and the role it can play in helping people with 'drivers of need' navigate the tax system.
The EST provides tailored support to help certain taxpayers understand their obligations, reduce stress and anxiety, and resolve complex or ongoing issues. If you come across someone who is vulnerable or has complex needs – whether that be gig-economy workers, older people, victims of economic abuse, or digitally excluded taxpayers, understanding how and when to signpost them to the EST could help prevent cases drifting into debt, penalties and non-compliance.
For advisers, it can also provide reassurance that there is somewhere for taxpayers to turn when you are unable to assist directly.
A valuable resource that every tax adviser should know about!
Do any of these scenarios sound familiar?
