HM Revenue
& Customs (HMRC) has launched a new online video to help
employers reduce the problems caused by inaccurate employee data.
Every year, HMRC receives thousands of employer returns,
containing the details of millions of employees, including names,
dates of birth and National Insurance numbers. While the vast
majority of the employee data is correct, in some cases dummy,
incomplete or incorrect information is included.
For example, a recent study of employer returns found that
128 staff were entered as Mr, Ms or Mrs Dummy, while 824 employees
had the surname “Unknown”.
Another 40 employees, according to their dates of birth, were
aged over 200. Many other employees had their forenames and
surnames swapped around, or their first names replaced by
initials, which can make it more difficult for HMRC to identify
the individuals.
The short YouTube video discusses how inaccurate employer returns
can affect employees, employers and HMRC, and offers basic advice
on how employers can help reduce errors.
Jim Harra, HMRC’s Director of Customer Operations, said:
“It’s really important that employers get their employees’
information right, so that HMRC can match it to the right tax
records. Otherwise, it can lead to more contact from staff, trying
to sort out their tax, and from HMRC, trying to sort out the data issues.
“So, if you’ve got a spare few minutes, watch the video and see
what you can do to help your organisation get things right, for
you, your employees and HMRC.”
The video can be viewed on the YouTube website at http://bit.ly/xVazur
For more information on improving payroll data go to www.hmrc.gov.uk/rti/dip/index.htm
Notes for editors
Two free webinars are also available at:
‘Real Time Information – an overview’ - a 15 minute look at the
RTI timetable, main day to day changes employers will see, and
what help and support is available
https://www3.gotomeeting.com/register/274066646
‘Accurate Employee Information Matters – it can save time and
money’ - an 11 minute look at examples and the implications of
inaccurate employee information, plus top tips on how to avoid
this and make sure that employee information is recorded
accurately.
https://www3.gotomeeting.com/register/261725806
Follow HMRC on Twitter @HMRCgovuk
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Phone: 020 7147 0798
jan.marszewski@hmrc.gsi.gov.uk
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NDS.HMRC@coi.gsi.gov.uk