Make your life easier

The Society’s Tax Law Committee has compiled its Top 10 Dos and Don’ts in submitting SDLT returns

1. Always keep a copy of the SDLT return(s) as submitted to the Revenue as well as all SDLT8s – without these you will not be able to chase up late certificates.

2. Write the SDLT return number on the back of the cheque – the M in the return number allows the Revenue to identify the cheque as an SDLT payment if it becomes detached from the cheque.

3. Only send one cheque per return.

4. Include the full DX address INCLUDING THE EXCHANGE NAME in the agent’s address box, e.g.

        ED 123         Edinburgh

        DX scanning software rejects “ED 123” as undeliverable and this will delay receipt of your SDLT certificate.

<>5. If at all possible, use the SDLT CD Rom (available from 0845 302 1472) or the Inland Revenue internet software rather than completing returns by hand. This will:

• <>reduce scanning errors, as the 2D barcode is scanned rather than the form itself;
• avoid logic errors as the information is validated before the form is printed;
• make completion easier, as drop down lists and help are included.

6. Do not enter zero or N/A in any box which is not applicable to your transaction as this will cause an SDLT8 to be generated which will delay receipt of your certificate.

7. Do not omit the effective date.

8.  Consider using e-submission of SDLT returns when this becomes available in April 2005 (see article on facing page for more details).

9.  Make sure the cheque amount agrees with the amount stated in the return, and the cheque is signed and dated – 12% do not agree with the return or are not signed/dated, and certificate issue is delayed while the Revenue investigates.

10.  Agree with your client that you will respond to any SDLT8s – the Revenue currently receives calls from both solicitor and client in many cases.