Dealing with Practice 9 Contractual Disclosure Facility (“CoP9”) from HMRC

A Code of Practice 9 (CoP9) investigation from HMRC is a serious matter. It signifies that HMRC suspects tax fraud but is offering you an opportunity to disclose any deliberate errors through the Contractual Disclosure Facility (CDF). This process can be daunting, but with the right expertise, it is possible to manage the investigation effectively, protect your interests, and avoid criminal prosecution.

At GBMM, we connect you with highly experienced and trusted service providers, including former HMRC professionals, who specialise in handling CoP9 cases. These experts provide clear, informed guidance to help you navigate the complexities of the process, ensuring compliance while minimising penalties and financial impact. With their unique knowledge and proven track record, they help make a challenging situation manageable.

What is a CoP9 Investigation?

Code of Practice 9 investigations are issued when HMRC suspects serious tax fraud. Under the Contractual Disclosure Facility, you are given the chance to:

• Disclose any deliberate wrongdoing.
• Cooperate fully with HMRC to resolve the matter.
• Avoid criminal prosecution if full disclosure is made.

While CoP9 is not an automatic admission of guilt, failing to respond correctly can result in significant financial penalties, prolonged investigations, and even criminal action.

How Our Service Providers Can Help

1. Expert Insight from Former HMRC Inspectors:
   We connect you with providers who include former HMRC professionals with first-hand knowledge of how CoP9 investigations are conducted. Their insider expertise helps you respond appropriately and avoid missteps that could escalate the case.
2. Clear, Tailored Advice:
   CoP9 cases are complex and time-sensitive. The consultants we introduce to you provide step-by-step guidance, ensuring you understand your rights, obligations, and the best course of action to resolve the matter efficiently.
3. Drafting a Full and Accurate Disclosure:
   A key part of the CDF process is submitting a detailed Outline Disclosure to HMRC. The experts we introduce help you compile and present this document, ensuring it is comprehensive, accurate, and addresses HMRC’s concerns effectively.
4. Mitigating Penalties:
   While financial penalties are a likely outcome, our providers work to minimise liabilities by negotiating with HMRC on your behalf, demonstrating full cooperation and mitigating circumstances.
5. Reducing Stress and Time:
   An HMRC investigation can cause significant personal and professional strain. By trusting the experts we recommend, you can focus on your business and personal life while they handle the complexities of the investigation.

Why Work with Our Trusted Providers?

• Specialist Expertise: The professionals we introduce you to have extensive experience managing CoP9 cases and understand the nuances of this serious investigation process.
• Insider Knowledge: Former HMRC inspectors bring unique insights that give you an advantage when responding to HMRC’s queries.
• Tailored Solutions: Every case is different, and our partners develop customised strategies to resolve your investigation effectively.
• Minimising Impact: From reducing penalties to preventing criminal action, the goal is to achieve the best possible outcome with the least disruption to your life and business.
• Clear Communication: CoP9 cases can be complex and overwhelming. These experts ensure you are fully informed and confident at every stage of the process.

The CoP9 Process

1. Initial Consultation:
   Your situation is assessed in detail by the provider to understand the scope of HMRC’s concerns and the specific areas under investigation.
2. Preparing Your Disclosure:
   The consultants we introduce help you draft a detailed Outline Disclosure, addressing all relevant areas and ensuring compliance with HMRC’s requirements.
3. Representation and Negotiation:
   The experts manage all communications with HMRC on your behalf, advocating for your interests and working to minimise penalties and resolve the case swiftly.
4. Follow-Up and Compliance:
   After the investigation, these professionals provide advice to strengthen your tax compliance processes, helping you avoid future HMRC scrutiny.

The Importance of Acting Quickly

A CoP9 investigation is not something to delay or approach without expert guidance. Responding incorrectly or failing to cooperate can lead to criminal prosecution and severe penalties. By engaging the right professionals early, you can take control of the situation, meet HMRC’s requirements, and resolve the matter with the best possible outcome.

Resolve CoP9 Investigations with Confidence

Facing a CoP9 investigation can be overwhelming, but you don’t have to navigate it alone. GBMM connects you with trusted, experienced professionals who bring the expertise, insight, and strategy you need to manage the process effectively and protect your interests.

Contact GBMM today to be introduced to the right experts who can support you through an HMRC Code of Practice 9 investigation and help you achieve a fair and efficient resolution.