The UK tax authority HMRC has announced a reorganization of its offices that will result in the replacement of 170 local offices by 13 new regional centers. The regional centers will support the necessary digital infrastructure and contain a mix of services for tax professionals and the corporate sector. The first regional centers are to open in 2016 and 2017 with others opening during the following four years. A number of transitional sites are to remain in operation during this period.
HMRC points out that almost all businesses deal with HMRC online and that more than 80% of self-assessment returns were completed digitally this year. HMRC therefore sees an opportunity to deliver services to taxpayers online and reduce the cost while increasing the level of service. The reorganization of HMRC offices aims to bring HMRC staff closer together and improve opportunities for collaboration.
