Pure Tax Investigations (HMRC Defence)

About Pure Tax Investigations (HMRC Defence)

Facing an HMRC investigation can feel overwhelming, intrusive, and incredibly stressful. Pure Tax Investigations (HMRC Defence) is your dedicated, independent specialist team that stands firmly between you and HMRC. We act as your robust buffer and expert advocate, fighting "tooth 'n' nail" to protect your interests. Led by Amit Puri, a former senior HMRC Tax Inspector with over 20 years of experience, our team understands the system from both sides. We provide business owners, entrepreneurs, private clients, and large corporations with clear, pragmatic, and discreet advice during tax disputes. Our core mission is to resolve your tax issues efficiently, provide certainty and peace of mind, and work towards the best possible commercial outcome, whether you're dealing with a routine compliance check or a serious fraud investigation. We specialise in navigating the complexities of HMRC procedures, allowing you to focus on running your life and business.

Features of Pure Tax Investigations (HMRC Defence)

Specialist Ex-HMRC Leadership

Our team is led by Amit Puri, a former senior HMRC Tax Inspector. This insider perspective is invaluable. We understand HMRC's tactics, operational approaches, and thought processes, which allows us to anticipate challenges, communicate effectively with investigators, and build the strongest possible defence strategy for your specific situation.

Comprehensive Investigation Defence

We manage the full spectrum of HMRC engagements. This includes defending clients during serious civil investigations like Code of Practice 9 (COP9) for suspected fraud and Code of Practice 8 (COP8) for complex avoidance, as well as handling routine business compliance checks and comprehensive, cross-tax enquiries into large corporate entities.

Proactive Tax Disclosure Management

We don't just defend; we also help you regularise your affairs proactively. Our specialists expertly guide clients through voluntary disclosure facilities like the Worldwide Disclosure Facility (WDF) for offshore matters and the Let Property Campaign (LPC) for undisclosed rental income, aiming to minimise penalties and secure a finalised position with HMRC.

Bespoke, Client-Centric Service

Every client receives a tailored service. We listen first, then evaluate your unique circumstances. Our approach is pragmatic and commercial, designed to address your immediate concerns, realise your long-term aspirations, and preserve your wealth. You get direct access to experienced, qualified advisers dedicated to your case.

Use Cases of Pure Tax Investigations (HMRC Defence)

Facing a COP9 "Tax Fraud" Investigation

If you have received a COP9 letter, HMRC suspects serious fraud. This is a critical time. We step in immediately to manage the Contractual Disclosure Facility (CDF) process, providing the strategic advice and robust representation needed to navigate this high-stakes civil investigation and work towards a financial settlement, avoiding criminal prosecution.

Managing a Complex COP8 Enquiry

Code of Practice 8 investigations target complex tax avoidance or sophisticated technical issues. Our specialists analyse the intricate details of your arrangements, prepare detailed technical arguments, and liaise with HMRC's specialist units to defend your position and resolve the enquiry with clarity and certainty.

Making a Voluntary Disclosure

If you have undisclosed income, gains from offshore assets, crypto, or rental profits, we can help you come forward voluntarily. We manage the entire disclosure process under the correct facility (like WDF or LPC), ensuring it is complete, accurate, and presented in a way that mitigates penalties and brings finality.

Responding to an HMRC Compliance Check

Even a routine business enquiry can be stressful and time-consuming. We act on your behalf, handling all communication with HMRC, gathering the required information, and ensuring the check is concluded as smoothly and swiftly as possible, preventing it from escalating into a more serious investigation.

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 a suspicion of serious tax fraud. The process is designed to secure a financial recovery (tax, interest, and penalties) on a civil basis. However, it operates under the shadow of potential criminal prosecution if the terms of the contractual disclosure are not followed correctly, which is why expert guidance is essential from the very start.

What is the difference between a tax investigation and a compliance check?

A compliance check is a routine review by HMRC to confirm your tax return is accurate and you are paying the right amount of tax. An investigation is more serious and invasive, often triggered by suspicions of significant errors, avoidance, or fraud. Investigations like COP8 or COP9 are far more in-depth, intrusive, and carry greater risks of substantial penalties.

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

While your accountant is vital for day-to-day affairs, tax investigations require specific expertise. Specialists like us have deep, current knowledge of HMRC's investigation tactics and procedures. We provide dedicated, robust defence strategies and act as an independent buffer, which can relieve immense pressure and often leads to a better, more commercial outcome.

What are the benefits of making a voluntary disclosure?

Making a voluntary disclosure to HMRC before they come to you has significant benefits. It demonstrates co-operation, which HMRC looks upon favourably. This typically results in substantially lower penalties compared to if HMRC discovers the undeclared tax themselves. It also allows you to regularise your affairs, gain peace of mind, and avoid the stress of a full investigation.