HMRC’s VAT inspections, also known as “Control Visits,” are now based on intelligence obtained from various sources, primarily the Connect system. This system draws on statistics from government and corporate sources to create a profile of each VAT registered business, and if this data varies from that submitted on returns, it is more likely that the business will be inspected. The Connect system can also examine public social media account information, web browsing, and emails. Less than 10% of all inspections are now random. With many local VAT offices closing, the Connect system will be increasingly important as HMRC is losing significant resources.
Source Marcus Ward
