Written question asked by Jim Cousins (Labour) on Thursday, 22 June 2000, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Wednesday, 28 June 2000. It was answered by Baroness Primarolo (Labour) on Wednesday, 28 June 2000 on behalf of the Treasury.

Treasury

Question: To ask Mr Chancellor of the Exchequer, what plans he has to simplify tax self-assessment for pensioners; and what advice and support the Inland Revenue provides for the completion of such forms. - Includes figures.

Answer: Mr. Cousins: To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer what plans he has to simplify tax self-assessment for pensioners; and what advice and support the Inland Revenue provides for the completion of such forms. [127878] Dawn Primarolo: The Government want to minimise the number of people who have to complete self- assessment tax returns. That is why last July I announced changes to the criteria determining who should receive self-assessment tax returns which meant that up to 200,000 older people should no longer have to complete returns. The Inland Revenue are considering whether there are other changes which can be made. For those pensioners who have to complete a tax return the Revenue is committed to giving the help they need. The Inland Revenue will help pensioners complete any forms if they cannot complete them themselves. They will visit the pensioner in his or her home if a face-to-face discussion is necessary and the pensioner is too infirm to get to the local tax office. Most Inland Revenue offices are equipped with magnifying lenses and induction loops--and all will be within the next few months. For those who prefer to contact the Revenue by telephone, they can contact their own tax office or use the helpline on 0845 9000 444. Research shows that the Revenue's help is valued as pensioners are the Inland Revenue's most satisfied customer group.

Secondary information