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Frequently Asked Questions

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General Tax Refund Queries

1. How long does it take to receive my tax refund?

Once we’ve received all the information we need, refunds typically take 6-8 weeks to reach your account. The process includes:

  • Setting you up on the HMRC system

  • Preparing your claim, including mileage and expense calculations

  • Requesting an approximate refund estimate from HMRC for your approval

  • Submitting your claim to HMRC

  • Receiving your refund and transferring your funds to you

 

2. Is there anything I can do to speed up the process?

Yes! The faster we receive your details, the quicker your claim can be processed. Please have the following ready:

  • Register for Self-Assessment to obtain your UTR using this form and send it to info@hbtaxgroup.co.uk

  • Complete and sign our Agent Authorisation Form 

  • Email your P60s, receipts for work-related expenses, and assignment forms to info@hbtaxgroup.co.uk

  • Sign our Client Engagement Agreement which will be sent to you

Note: If you’ve claimed with us before, you can skip the registration and simply provide your UTR and postcode.

 

3. I don’t have a UTR. What should I do?

If you don’t yet have a Unique Taxpayer Reference (UTR), complete this HMRC form to apply. You’ll usually receive your UTR within 4-6 weeks. If preferred, we can send a paper form by post.

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4. How do I know if I’m eligible for a tax refund?

Simply complete our Qualification Form on the website. We’ll review your information and get back to you within 48 hours.

 

5. What are HB Tax Group’s prices?

Tax refunds
25% + VAT of refund

Minimum processing fee per tax year
£150 + VAT

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Self-employed / property income / £100k+ income
£275 + VAT

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Manual mileage calculation (if applicable)
£110 + VAT

We also offer bespoke packages for Ltd companies - contact us for a tailored quote.

 

6. I’ve lost my P60s - can I still claim?

Yes! We can request online access to your HMRC income viewer. You’ll just need to click the secure link we send and authorise us via your Government Gateway account.

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7. What’s the difference between a tax refund and a tax return?

A tax return is the form submitted to HMRC detailing your income and expenses.

A tax refund occurs when HMRC determines you’ve overpaid tax. You must complete a tax return to claim a refund, but not all tax returns lead to one.

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8. Will this affect my current tax code?

No. We claim for previous tax years, so your current tax code should remain unaffected. We’ll also check periodically to ensure no incorrect changes are made.

 

9. Could I end up owing tax?

If you were previously on an incorrect tax code and underpaid tax, HMRC may show a balance owed. However, we’ll help reduce this wherever possible through allowable expense claims.

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10. Can I refer a friend?

Yes! You’ll receive £25 off your next successful claim when a friend or colleague you refer completes their first claim with us.

Refer a friend here.

 

Ltd Company FAQs

1. Do you handle Limited Company returns?

Yes, we provide full Ltd company accounting services, including annual accounts, Corporation Tax returns, and Companies House submissions.

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2. What information do you need from my company?

We’ll typically need:

  • Company registration details and UTR

  • Bank statements and bookkeeping records

  • Payroll reports (if applicable)

  • Invoices and receipts for business expenses

 

3. Can you manage my bookkeeping and payroll?

Absolutely! We offer ongoing bookkeeping, payroll, and credit control support to keep your business compliant and cash-flow healthy.

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4. Do you help with VAT returns?

Yes, we prepare and file VAT returns for both standard and flat-rate schemes. We’ll also advise you on the most tax-efficient setup for your business.

 

Self-Employed FAQs

1. What can I claim as a self-employed person?

You can claim for:

  • Travel between business sites

  • Tools, materials, and equipment

  • Office expenses (including home office costs)

  • Uniforms and protective clothing

  • Professional fees and insurance

 

2. How much do you charge for self-employed tax returns?

Our fee for processing a self-employed tax return is £275 + VAT, or 25% + VAT of any refund 

 

Bookkeeping, Invoicing & Credit Control

1. Can you help me with invoicing and getting paid faster?

Yes - we provide invoicing support, payment tracking, and credit control services to ensure you get paid on time and maintain healthy cash flow.

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2. What bookkeeping software do you use?

We work with major platforms such as QuickBooks, Xero, and FreeAgent, but can also adapt to your preferred system.

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3. How often should I update my books?

We recommend monthly bookkeeping to stay compliant, avoid missed expenses, and make year-end filing smooth and stress-free.

 

Military FAQs

1. I’ve left the Armed Forces - can I still claim a refund?

Yes. If you’ve left the forces within the last 4 years, you may still be eligible for a refund. Provide your assignment forms and allowance details so we can process your claim accurately.

 

2. I live on base - can I claim?

Yes, if you also maintain a main residence elsewhere. Your refund will be based on travel between your base and main home, minus any GYH or HTD allowances already received.

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3. I’m based overseas - can I claim?

If your main home is in the UK and you travel abroad for work, you may qualify for a refund. Contact us for an assessment.

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4. Can I claim for my mess dress?

Yes, provided you can show proof of purchase within the last four tax years.

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5. I’ve been at my base for over 2 years - can I still claim?

Possibly. If your original assignment was under two years or you’ve travelled to other bases or training sites, you may still be eligible.

 

Construction FAQs

1. I work in construction - what can I claim for?

You may claim for:

  • Travel between sites

  • Meals when working away

  • Accommodation for overnight stays

  • Protective clothing and tools

 

2. What documents do I need for a construction refund claim?

Please provide:

  • A list of job sites and dates

  • Monthly payslips for each tax year

  • Photo ID and proof of address

  • Receipts or MOT certificates for expenses

3. I’m paid under the CIS scheme - what does that mean?

The Construction Industry Scheme (CIS) means tax is deducted at source from your pay. You may have overpaid tax, and we can help you claim it back.

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