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HMRC have published a consultation document, which sets out a series of options for improving payment methods for taxpayers and modernising debt management operations.

The consultation paper forms part of HMRC's work to modernise its powers, deterrents and the accompanying safeguards. Comments are invited on a range of ideas to make it easier for taxpayers to pay on time and improve the way HMRC deal with those who do not.

The consultation document seeks views on how HMRC might address the following in relation to managing payment and debt:

• a more taxpayer focused approach - focusing less on debts arising from individual taxes and more on the taxpayer's whole interaction with HMRC;
• making it easier to pay - providing a range of payment methods, making it easier for taxpayers to pay their tax at the right time; and
• tackling the problem of debt - having made it easier to pay, and supported those who genuinely find it hard to pay, HMRC need the right tools to tackle those who choose to pay late.

Overall, the options aim to align and modernise rules across HMRC's tax responsibilities, where doing so would provide greater clarity, consistency, efficiency and reduced costs for taxpayers and HMRC.

All the options would require legislative change, if they were adopted, and would therefore be subject to full Parliamentary scrutiny and debate.

The deadline for submitting comments is 17 September 2007.

Links

HMRC Consultation document: Payments, Repayments and Debt: The developing programme of work