What do conveyancers need to know about the pending requirements for those “interacting” with HMRC to register as tax advisers?
To take a deep dive into the issue the Today’s Conveyancer Podcast welcomes Ian Quayle, CEO of IQ Legal Training, and Ryan Hannah, Managing Director of Compass. With the registration window opening imminently and clarity still frustratingly thin on the ground what do we know, and more importantly, what are we still waiting for.
There is a risk, says Quayle, registering as a tax adviser risks creating a dangerous mismatch between what conveyancers are and what clients may now assume them to be. The potential for negligence claims, client confusion and professional overreach looms large.
There is also an issue here around fairness; every taxpayer, says Hannah, deserves accurate, consistent application of the law, and the current system leaves too much to chance. He highlights the routine, everyday transactions – not necessarily the sprawling country piles – as the real breeding ground for costly mistakes.
The podcast explores unanswered questions around registration, the spectre of fines and suspensions, the inadequacy of existing guidance, the implications of outsourcing, and the uncomfortable reality that conveyancers may soon be held to higher tax‑advice standards than ever before.
Is that such a bad thing? Does forcing registration on the sector set out to improve standards in this constantly thorny issue? Discuss…
The Today’s Conveyancer podcast can be found on your preferred podcast provider and also at www.todaysconveyancer.co.uk. Subscribe and listen in for all the latest conveyancing industry news and views.
Thank you to our podcast sponsors LEAP Legal Software.
One Response
At the BLG conference on the 17th June we will be holding a panel session: What conveyancers need to do now. Exploring the various options that will be available to them. Even though Tax Adviser registration is due to begin on the 18th May, no knee jerk reaction will be needed. Considering your options and making the right choice for you, your firm, and your colleagues going forward will be vital.