HMRC have informed us that some Lloyds underwriters will be unable to file 2008/09 self assessment tax returns online. This will apply to those showing a profit (at box 51) and a total foreign tax figures (at box 50). HMRC wrote to Lloyds underwriters on 26 August regarding an error in the online fling system which would prevent them filing online. However, agents were not necessarily notified of the problem. Returns for affected clients will need to be filed on paper with an extended deadline of 31 January 2010.
The CIOT has obtained a copy of the letter, which HMRC have agreed to our publishing as it may be of interest to members with Lloyds underwriting clients. The text of the letter to Lloyds members states:
START:
"Dear Member
"Self Assessment Return 2008-2009
"I am writing to inform you that an error has been identified in the main software used by HM Revenue & Customs to validate the on-line submission of 2008-2009 self assessment tax returns.
"The error in this software means that HM Revenue & Customs is now unable to offer on-line submission to those individuals whose 2008-2009 self assessment tax return includes a profit at box 51 of the Lloyd’s underwriters self assessment pages (SA 103L) together with a figure for ‘Total foreign tax’ at box 50.
"We have explored, unfortunately without success, a number of solutions to this problem with the external software providers and others. As a result, all those individual Names who are affected by this should now submit a paper return. The submission of any 2008-2009 self assessment returns for individuals which do not require entries at boxes 50 and 51 of the Lloyd’s underwriters pages (SA 103L) is unaffected.
"In view of the withdrawal of the on-line filing facility for 2008-2009 self assessment tax returns of individuals whose returns include the specific entries detailed above, HM Revenue & Customs has exceptionally extended the deadline for submission of the paper self assessment returns which are now required as a result of this software problem from 31 October 2009 to 31 January 2010.
"Please accept our sincere apologies for any inconvenience caused by the withdrawal of the electronic filing facility for the 2008-2009 return in these circumstances.
"Please also note that the previously published advice dated 11 March 2009 regarding ‘Syndicate Foreign Tax’ still applies to the preparation the Lloyd’s pages (SA 103L) of the 2008-2009 self assessment tax returns for individuals.
"Self Assessment Return 2009-2010
"I have been informed that the necessary amendments have now been made to the software which will allow on-line submission of self assessment returns for 2009-2010.
"If you would like to discuss this matter in any more detail, please contact this office on 01274 782931."
END OF HMRC LETTER
Technical Department
020 7235 9381
