Tax Relief and Tax Returns

[stevieb]

Probably one for eric, but i have been rather ignorant over the past 5-6 years with my tax, and keeping upto date with filing forms with the tax office.

I have got all of my records of meeting and expenses still outstanding from previous employers, which i would like to claim tax relief for for the years go by.

The years in question are 2001 to 2005 inclusive, and i have got the self assesment forms and the P87 forms. I have been reading through some of the guidance notes for them, but i am usure of the limits that you can claim for. As for year ending 2006 you were requested to complete a Self assesment if your expenses exceed £2500 for the year. But on 2005 and prior this is not mentioned on the form or in the guidance notes.

Would this be ok in stating that for one year i had expenses in excess of £4000 that the P87 could be used? I have already queried the expense with the tax office and they have written back confirming that it is an allowable expence which i have claimed for. Other years i am not bothered about as they are only £200-£300 for which i have completed.

I am just thinking that should i complete the P87 or the Self assesment? The chap at the tax office is unsure of tax rules for previous years so i am waiting on a call back, but hew has said that will be within 14 days!

So which would it be P87 or Selfassesment?

Thanks

Steve

[Eric Mc]

TYhe Self Assesment form is the more complete of the two. My basic rule is, if in doubt, complete a Self Assessment form.

[stevieb]

Eric Mc said:

TYhe Self Assesment form is the more complete of the two. My basic rule is, if in doubt, complete a Self Assessment form.

Thanks for that.

Will that mean that if i say complete a self assesment for 2003, i would then have to complete a self assesment for 2004 and 2005??

Thanks

[Eric Mc]

Not necessarilly, but if the details going on the Self Assessment form are not too complicated, then you might as well fill one in. Just ignore all the sections that are irrelevant. Once the returns are submitted, the Revenue might write to you saying you don't need to fuill one in from next year onewards (although those letters are extremely dangerous in their own right).