Pure Tax Investigations

About Pure Tax Investigations

Pure Tax Investigations is a specialist firm dedicated to guiding business owners, entrepreneurs, and private clients through the stressful and complex world of HMRC tax investigations and disclosures. Think of us as your expert shield and advisor when dealing with the UK tax authority. We understand that receiving a letter from HMRC can be daunting, whether it's a simple compliance check or a serious fraud investigation. Our mission is to step in as your independent, specialist buffer, handling all communication and negotiation with HMRC on your behalf. Led by Amit Puri, a former senior HMRC Tax Inspector with over 20 years of experience, our team provides the deep, insider knowledge needed to robustly defend your position. We offer clarity, reduce your stress, and fight strategically to achieve the best possible commercial outcome, protecting your wealth and giving you peace of mind.

Features of Pure Tax Investigations

Specialist HMRC Investigation Defence

Our core service is providing robust, expert defence during HMRC enquiries. We manage all communication, analyse HMRC's requests, and prepare detailed, strategic responses. Our team, led by an ex-HMRC inspector, understands the tactics and processes used by investigators, allowing us to effectively challenge inaccuracies and protect your interests from the outset.

Expert-Led Tax Disclosure Management

We specialise in managing voluntary disclosures to HMRC, such as the Worldwide Disclosure Facility (WDF) and Let Property Campaign (LPC). We guide you through the entire process, from calculating undeclared tax liabilities to preparing the formal disclosure submission. Our approach ensures the disclosure is correct and complete, minimising penalties and avoiding a more serious investigation.

Comprehensive Coverage of HMRC Procedures

We handle the full spectrum of HMRC actions, from routine compliance checks to the most serious civil investigations like Code of Practice 9 (COP9) and Code of Practice 8 (COP8). No matter the scale or complexity—be it for an individual, a small business, or a large corporate—we have the expertise to manage the process and provide tailored advice.

Bespoke Client-Centric Approach

Every client receives a personalised service. We begin by listening carefully to understand your unique situation and concerns. Our advice is then clear, discreet, and tailored to your specific commercial and personal aspirations. We focus on providing certainty and resolving your tax issues efficiently, so you can get back to running your business and life.

Use Cases of Pure Tax Investigations

Facing a Code of Practice 9 (COP9) Investigation

If HMRC suspects serious tax fraud and opens a COP9 investigation, it is a critical situation. We act immediately to manage the Contractual Disclosure Facility (CDF) process, advising you on your options and working to secure a civil settlement. Our expertise is crucial in navigating this high-stakes procedure to avoid criminal prosecution.

Managing a Let Property Campaign Disclosure

For landlords who have undeclared rental income, the Let Property Campaign (LPC) offers a chance to come forward. We help you gather the necessary financial records, calculate the owed tax and interest, and negotiate with HMRC to secure the best possible penalty rate, bringing your affairs up to date with reduced risk.

Responding to an HMRC Compliance Check

When HMRC launches a routine enquiry into your tax return or business accounts, it can be time-consuming and stressful. We take over all correspondence, interpret HMRC's questions, and prepare thorough responses and documentation. This ensures the check is resolved as quickly and favourably as possible, preventing it from escalating.

Making a Worldwide Disclosure for Offshore Assets

For individuals with overseas income or gains that have not been declared to HMRC, the Worldwide Disclosure Facility (WDF) is the appropriate route. We provide expert guidance on the complex rules, calculate the historic tax liabilities, and prepare a full disclosure to regularise your position, mitigating higher penalties.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is a COP9 tax fraud investigation serious?

Yes, a Code of Practice 9 (COP9) investigation is very serious. It is undertaken by HMRC's Fraud Investigation Service when they have reason to suspect significant tax fraud. The process is designed to secure a financial recovery (tax, interest, and penalties) on a civil basis. While the aim is typically a civil settlement, it exists as an alternative to a criminal prosecution, which underscores its gravity. Having specialist representation is essential.

What is the difference between a tax investigation and a disclosure?

A tax investigation is initiated by HMRC when they choose to examine your affairs. You are required to respond. A tax disclosure, like the WDF or LPC, is a voluntary process you choose to start, proactively informing HMRC about past errors or omissions to correct your tax position. We specialise in managing both scenarios effectively.

Why should I use a specialist instead of my regular accountant?

While your accountant is vital for day-to-day finances, tax investigations and disclosures require specific, tactical expertise in HMRC's specialist procedures and negotiation strategies. Our team, including ex-HMRC inspectors, has deep, focused experience in this adversarial area, providing a dedicated defence that a general practice accountant may not offer.

What happens during an HMRC compliance check?

An HMRC compliance check is an enquiry into a specific part of your tax return or accounts. HMRC will request information and documents to verify the figures. With us on your side, we handle all requests, ensure you provide only what is necessary, and craft professional responses to resolve the matter efficiently and limit its scope.