The 64-8 form, also known as “Authorising your agent,” is a pivotal document used in the UK to appoint someone, such as an accountant or tax advisor, to act on your behalf concerning HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) matters. This form allows the nominated individual to communicate with HMRC, manage taxes, and handle various financial affairs for the applicant.
What is the 64-8 Form?
Purpose: The form is primarily used to authorize an individual or organization to represent you before HMRC, allowing them to handle tax-related matters on your behalf.
Key Role: It’s a fundamental tool for entrusting a representative with the authority to discuss, access, and make decisions regarding your tax affairs.
Contents: The form includes information about both the individual granting authority (the ‘client’) and the appointed representative. It requires details like names, addresses, taxpayer references, and the nature of the authority granted.
Components of the 64-8 Form:
Personal Details: Your name address and National Insurance Number
Representative Details: Name your tax agent reference number
Scope of Authority: Specific tax affairs the representative is authorized to handle, such as self-assessment, VAT, PAYE, etc.
Why is the 64-8 Form Important?
Delegating Authority: It allows someone you trust, like an accountant or tax advisor, to manage your tax affairs. This is particularly beneficial if you’re busy, lack expertise, or prefer professional guidance.
Efficiency: With a representative handling your tax affairs, communication, and resolution of tax-related issues with HMRC can be more streamlined and efficient.
Compliance: It ensures that all tax-related communication and decision-making processes are aligned with your preferences and within legal boundaries.
How to Complete the 64-8 Form:
Obtain the Form: Access the form from the HMRC website.
Provide Personal Information: Fill in your details your name and residential information
Appoint a Representative: Add the details of your chosen representative, including their name, address, and the taxes they are authorized to handle.
Scope of Authority: Specify the particular tax affairs or actions your representative is authorized to manage.
Sign and Submit: Once completed, both you and the appointed representative need to sign the form before submission.
Top Tips for Completing the 64-8 Form:
Accuracy is Key: Ensure all details provided are accurate and up-to-date to avoid potential complications.
Be Specific: Clearly define the extent of the representative’s authority over your tax matters.
Review Before Submission: Double-check all information provided for any errors or omissions.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about the 64-8 Form:
Can I Authorize Multiple Representatives on a Single Form?
Yes, you can appoint multiple representatives for different tax affairs on a single form.
How Long Does the Authorization Last?
The authorization remains valid until either party revokes it or until a specific end date is mentioned in the form.
Can I Still Communicate with HMRC if I’ve Authorized a Representative?
Yes, you can still communicate with HMRC, but your appointed representative will handle specified tax affairs.
Conclusion:
The 64-8 form stands as a crucial instrument for entrusting someone to act on your behalf concerning HMRC tax affairs. It simplifies the management of taxes and allows for professional representation, ensuring smoother communication and resolution of tax-related matters with HMRC. By accurately completing and submitting this form, individuals can grant authority to trusted representatives, benefiting from their expertise while maintaining control over their tax affairs.
Remember, seeking guidance from professionals or HMRC is advisable to ensure proper completion of the form and to understand its implications thoroughly.
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