£16.8m tax boost from HMRC-funded voluntary sector work

Grants to voluntary and community sector organisations that help people with taxes, benefits and tax credits led to additional tax of £16.8m being declared last year, up 68 per cent on the previous year.

The HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC) scheme also led to the take-up of an extra £48.7m in tax credits, benefits and tax repayments, up 70 per cent on the previous year.

In addition, 4,000 volunteers were trained to assist with tax and benefits issues. This should ensure that an additional 200,000 people per year get help and advice on HMRC-related issues.

Exchequer Secretary David Gauke said: “HMRC’s grant funding goes to organisations providing independent, trustworthy advice for vulnerable people and those on low incomes, to help them with their entitlements and tax affairs.

“I am pleased that HMRC is able to support taxpayers who need assistance in this way by using voluntary and community sector organisations.”