Tax Deadline Looms for Victims of Post Office Horizon Scandal

Around 1,000 individuals affected by the Post Office Horizon scandal are facing a crucial tax deadline, coinciding with the return of former Post Office CEO Paula Vennells' CBE due to her leadership during the Horizon Scandal era.

HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) assured postmasters impacted by late top-up payments that any penalties or associated interest for missing the January 31 deadline would be waived. Postmasters receiving compensation via the Horizon Shortfall Scheme in the 2022/23 tax year are required to declare these payments through self-assessment and settle any owed taxes.

HMRC has established a dedicated support team and offers the option for those unable to pay in full to arrange a payment plan. The Horizon Shortfall Scheme compensated postmasters for apparent losses caused by faulty Horizon accounting software, subjecting these payments to income tax and national insurance contributions.

Notably, ITV's drama "Mr Bates vs The Post Office" has spotlighted this enduring scandal. However, delays in top-up payments and tax advice grants from the Post Office have added complexity to postmasters' tax obligations, requiring prompt payment by the end of January.

The Insolvency Service continues to aid those affected by bankruptcy resulting from this controversy, urging individuals meeting specific criteria to reach out for assistance via Horizoncases@insolvency.gov.uk.