HMRC Customer Service Hits Record Low Amid Rising Complaints
A recent report by the Public Accounts Committee reveals deteriorating customer service at HMRC, with average call wait times exceeding 16 minutes.
- HMRC's average call wait time has increased to over 16 minutes, with nearly two-thirds of callers waiting more than 10 minutes.
- A VIP hotline allows MPs and certain officials to bypass long wait times, raising concerns about fairness.
- HMRC's shift towards digital services, including chatbots and online resources, aims to reduce phone and postal inquiries.
- The number of criminal prosecutions by HMRC has significantly dropped, while trivial debts are still pursued.
- Customer dissatisfaction grows as HMRC struggles to manage increasing demand and complexity of tax affairs.