Tax inspectors have heard it all, but the excuses for failing to get benefit claim forms on time bring a new crop each year.
Owen Kyffin, director and tax expert at Whitley Stimpson, the leading accountants and business advisers says: “The tax man really does have a sense of humour and some of the excuses for not getting the claim forms in on time are hilarious. The problem is that if claimants miss the deadline they could lose their payments.”
Owen listed some of the excuses:
• My dog ate the form;
• The form was locked in the boot of my car, and then my car caught fire;
• My baby used the paperwork as a colouring book;
• One woman told the taxman: I didn’t need the money because I met a rich bloke, but he dumped me.
“The excuses may be amusing but the outcome is not,” said Owen. “We are talking about benefits that give extra funds to those responsible for children, disabled workers and some other workers on low incomes.
“Last year more than 650,000 people failed to renew on time. Those who may have difficulty with the form are welcome to book an appointment to come and see us as soon as possible before the deadline of 31 July – although we would be grateful if dog owners would leave their pets at home.”
Whitley Stimpson is the leading adviser on financial matters for individuals and Owen Kyffin can be contacted on 01295 270200 or by email at owenk@whitleystimpson.co.uk
