HMRC ADR Trial Extended

HMRC is extending its Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) trial to two more regions - London and South Wales/South West England.

The ADR scheme involves an independent HMRC 'facilitator' - with no previous history of involvement in any any prior dispute concerning either the taxpayer or the HMRC case owner – attempting to broker an agreement between the two parties

‘ADR has proven to be an effective way of resolving tax disputes in a quick and efficient way, not just for tax but in the commercial world as well,’ an HMRC spokesman said:

In this latest phase of trial, ADR will be available to SME customers who have tax disputes, at the stage before an appealable tax decision or assessment has been made by HMRC.

This phase of the trial will initially be limited to residents in North Wales and North West England.

ADR covers both VAT and direct taxes disputes. HMRC has stressed that entering into the ADR process will not affect the customer's existing review and appeal rights.