Via the monthly Wages Wednesdays, ICB have been warning members about HMRC industrial action that will disrupt the following services:
• The Employer Helpline (EHL) 0300 200 3200; and
• The Construction Industry Scheme (CIS) Helpline 0300 200 3210
This is because members of the Public and Commercial Services (PCS) union are taking industrial action at Benton Park View in Newcastle in support of three staff members who were sacked in 2024.
Originally, this was between 23 December 2024 and 14 February 2025, however, HMRC have advised that the industrial action has been extended to 14 March 2024.
There is no change to the previous guidance and whilst the above lines and webchat will remain open between 8am and 6pm, HMRC advise that longer waiting times can be expected. Callers will hear a message which tells them about the industrial action and the increased waiting times. This message will also encourage customers to use HMRC’s digital services.
For Bookkeepers
ICB continues to encourage members to engage with HMRC’s digital services rather than wait on the telephone. HMRC say that some of the main reasons for calling are as follows and offer a digital alternative:
- The digital assistant may be able to provide responses;
- The status of CIS refunds can be checked using the ‘Where’s my reply’ tool; and
- Account balances can be checked using the Business Tax Account
For technical support with online services use the Online Services Helpdesk.
