The HMRC are cracking down on illegal tax avoidance schemes in an effort to boost the treasury. Contractors lured into tax avoidance schemes carry a high chance of a HMRC COP9 investigation. In some cases, the HMRC are using a “pay now, dispute later” approach, with some demanded to pay £30,000 within 90 days. This new HMRC power was enforced to chase those who were involved in aggressive tax avoidance schemes. This enables the HMRC to demand payments up front from those liable using APNs (Accelerated Payment Notices). Prior to this, the HMRC were forced to spend billions in court battles. These costly court cases prompted the approval of the new legislation in 2014. This legislation allows them to take a “pay now, argue later” approach to aggressive contractor tax avoidance. Reputable tax accountants in Birmingham and the surrounding areas are able to offer expert advice for contractors, enabling contractors to achieve the best possible solutions.