SALLY SORTS IT: Tax return fraudster used my name to swindle 6,305

A fraudster impersonated me and used my details to make a claim for money through a fake tax return.

But HM Revenue & Customs is demanding I return the 6,305 that the imposter received.

Im struggling to solve the problem. It is causing distress and sleepless nights.

Anon.

With the January 31 online deadline for filing self-assessment tax returns looming, your case is a timely one and serves as a warning to others to be vigilant over mysterious goings-on with their tax returns.

The problem first came to your attention in August 2022 when your accountant went to submit your tax return. To his surprise, he was told one had already been filed.

Someone had sent in forms under your name via the HRMC online portal. This, you felt, should have raised an immediate red flag with the authorities because for the last decade you have used this reputable accountancy firm to file your return.

Your accountant tried sorting out the issue with the taxman but got nowhere, other than obtaining a copy of the fraudulent return.