HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC) has launched a new online tax forum, geared at providing useful tips to business owners and self-employed individuals.
The new Small Business Online Forum, which is driven by a live message board and a web chat service, went live on Tuesday 2 August.
The portal displays Q&A-style information, but no personal or case-specific information relating to a business or taxpayer’s individual circumstances is allowed to be posted.
Despite this, however, users can take advantage of a useful online chat service – which can provide basic business tips and support from a more personal perspective.
Reports suggest that the service has already attracted as many as 1,000 registered users.
Launching the forum earlier this week, Mel Stride, Financial Secretary to the Treasury, said: “The UK’s 5.4 million small businesses play a vital role in our economy. We want to help businesses get off the ground and support them as they grow.
“That is why we are launching a new forum and web chat service which will give these companies useful hints and tips… so that they can continue to flourish.”
Meanwhile, the Federation of Small Businesses (FSB) has welcomed the move, describing it as “encouraging” for start-ups and small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) alike.
HMRC’s new service is able to offer some useful tips to business owners and taxpayers who are confused about tax. However, although useful, those in need of true support should always seek out situation-specific advice relating to their unique circumstances, which can be provided by an expert accountant.