Pure Tax Investigations

About Pure Tax Investigations

Pure Tax Investigations is a dynamic, specialist firm designed to be the ultimate strategic partner for businesses, entrepreneurs, and private clients navigating the high-stakes arena of HMRC tax investigations and disclosures. We operate as an independent, expert buffer between you and the tax authority, providing robust defence and clear, commercial guidance during times of intense pressure. Our core mission is to de-risk your growth trajectory by resolving complex tax disputes efficiently, allowing you to focus on scaling your ventures with confidence. Founded and led by Amit Puri, a former senior HMRC Tax Inspector with over 20 years of frontline experience, our team combines deep institutional knowledge with a proactive, client-centric approach. We specialise in the full spectrum of tax challenges, from routine compliance checks and voluntary disclosures to the most serious civil fraud investigations under Code of Practice 9 (COP9). For ambitious clients whose financial affairs are inherently complex, we deliver certainty, preserve wealth, and protect your reputation, turning a major business vulnerability into a managed, resolved outcome.

Features of Pure Tax Investigations

Former HMRC Insider Expertise

Our strategic advantage is led by Amit Puri, a former senior HMRC Tax Inspector. This provides an unparalleled, growth-oriented insight into HMRC's operational tactics, negotiation frameworks, and investigative priorities. We leverage this insider knowledge to anticipate challenges, craft compelling responses, and secure optimal commercial settlements for our clients, effectively de-risking the entire investigation process.

End-to-End Investigation Management

We provide a complete, hands-on service that scales to meet the depth of any enquiry. From the initial HMRC letter through to final settlement, our specialists manage all communication, evidence collation, technical analysis, and negotiation. This comprehensive stewardship ensures a consistent, robust defence, removes the overwhelming administrative burden from you, and allows your business to maintain its operational momentum.

Proactive Tax Disclosure Facilitation

Beyond reactive defence, we enable proactive growth strategies through managed voluntary disclosures. We expertly guide clients through facilities like the Worldwide Disclosure Facility (WDF) and Let Property Campaign (LPC), transforming potential future liabilities into closed, compliant chapters. This forward-looking service secures your foundation, mitigates future risk, and provides the clean slate needed for confident scaling.

Bespoke Client-Centric Strategy

We reject a one-size-fits-all model. Every client receives a tailored strategy built from a deep-dive analysis of their unique commercial landscape and aspirations. We listen first, then architect a pragmatic, discreet defence or disclosure plan that aligns with your business goals, whether you're a fast-scaling startup, an established corporate, or a high-net-worth individual with complex assets.

Use Cases of Pure Tax Investigations

Navigating a COP9 Civil Fraud Investigation

When HMRC initiates a Code of Practice 9 (COP9) investigation, suspecting serious tax fraud, the stakes are immense. We step in immediately to manage the Contractual Disclosure Facility (CDF) process, providing the critical strategic buffer. Our expertise guides you through this intensive procedure to secure a civil settlement, protecting you from criminal prosecution and safeguarding your business's future and reputation.

Responding to Complex Corporate Compliance Checks

For large businesses and corporates facing comprehensive, cross-tax enquiries from HMRC, the scope can be vast and disruptive. Our team deploys its systematic approach to manage these complex checks efficiently. We ensure robust, technically sound responses are delivered, minimising operational downtime and financial exposure, allowing leadership to stay focused on core business growth and strategy.

Making a Voluntary Disclosure via WDF or LPC

For clients with undisclosed offshore income or rental profits, proactive action is key to sustainable growth. We facilitate streamlined disclosures under HMRC's Worldwide Disclosure Facility (WDF) or Let Property Campaign (LPC). We handle the entire process, from calculating historical liabilities to negotiating penalties, ensuring compliance is achieved with minimal disruption and maximum finality.

Managing High-Stakes COP8 Investigations

Code of Practice 8 (COP8) investigations target complex tax avoidance or sophisticated planning, often involving large sums. Our specialists provide the rigorous technical defence and negotiation prowess required for these intricate cases. We analyse HMRC's position, build a compelling counter-argument, and work tenaciously to achieve a commercial resolution that aligns with your long-term financial architecture.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is a COP9 tax fraud investigation serious?

Yes, a Code of Practice 9 (COP9) investigation is an extremely serious civil procedure undertaken by HMRC's Fraud Investigation Service when they suspect serious tax fraud. While it is a civil process aimed at financial recovery (tax, interest, and penalties), it runs parallel to the possibility of criminal prosecution. Engaging specialist representation from the outset is critical to navigate the CDF process correctly and secure a civil settlement, thereby mitigating the risk of criminal charges.

What is the difference between a tax investigation and a compliance check?

A compliance check is a routine review by HMRC to verify the accuracy of a tax return or claim. It is often limited in scope. A tax investigation is a more formal, in-depth, and intrusive process typically triggered by suspicions of significant error, omission, or deliberate wrongdoing. Investigations like COP8 or COP9 are far more serious, carry higher potential penalties, and require expert, strategic defence to manage the outcome effectively.

Why should I use a specialist instead of my regular accountant?

While your accountant is vital for day-to-day compliance, tax investigations require a different skillset: deep knowledge of HMRC's specialist investigation divisions, forensic analysis, negotiation under pressure, and litigation strategy. As dedicated specialists, we act as an independent buffer, providing robust defence without conflict of interest. Our sole focus is achieving the best possible outcome in a high-stakes, adversarial scenario.

Can you help if I've already started dealing with HMRC myself?

Absolutely. It is never too late to seek expert representation. We can immediately assess the current status, review any communications you've had, and take over all future dealings with HMRC. Our intervention can help re-frame the narrative, ensure proper procedures are followed, and implement a stronger strategic approach to protect your position and work towards a more favourable resolution.