How Far Back can the Tax Man Claim against you?

Question

Looking back through self assessment Ive no confirmation of receipt of  my forms in 2005, yet I've never been fined the £100 and I'm positive I did not submit them. I was self employed for 2 years and I'm sure it was the second year. I've also found out I'm being deducted from my personal allowance for sick benefits going back 4 years against a pension. I pay basic rate on my current job and all my entitlement is on my pension. I'm sure the year missed is negligible on any tax out standing but getting an accountant could be a real expense. Is there a limit on the amount of time the tax office can realistically go back into my affairs? I think the over payments amount to £3000 against my allowance.....

fengirl2 · Accepted Answer

If you are concerned, why don't you ask for an up to date self assessment statement?

johny · Answer

you should be ok they only look that far back if you really done something wrong like scam them out of millions don't tell anyone and keep it quiet, you should be ok.

plus the tax man don't go after new businesses because they know your just starting up. mostly in your 3 year the start going hard on people.

farnster · Answer

The tax man can go back as far as he wants im afraid. i was caught for 9 years tax. but i have heard if you can avoid him for 5 years with no contact from him via mail or phone your in the clear, but im not 100% sure of that

Anonymous · Answer

In the USA its 7 years.So you need to keep all tax prep documents for at least 7 years before trashing them.

steffi · Answer

Normally six years, but if fraud is suspected, ad infinitum, there is no limit.

How Far Back can the Tax Man Claim against you?

5 Answers