HMRC publishes latest deliberate tax defaulters list
HMRC publishes latest deliberate tax defaulters list, naming individuals, businesses and companies. In addition, the list shows the amounts on which penalties are due. It also sets out the exact penalties that HMRC has charged in each case. As a result, the list is a clear reminder of what non-compliance can cost.
Who appears on the latest list?
HMRC published the current list of deliberate tax defaulters on 24 September 2026. Notably, it features a Northampton-based business support company. This company has an undeclared tax bill of over £9.1m. On top of that, it faces penalties of over £4.4m.
Similarly, the list names a retail sales company based in Nelson. Its undeclared tax bill stands at almost £4.7m. Meanwhile, its penalties total almost £3.3m.
However, large companies aren’t the only ones on the list. It also includes many smaller penalties for local trades and businesses, such as:
- takeaways
- convenience stores
- letting agents
- dog breeders
- mechanics.
Clearly, HMRC pursues deliberate defaulters of every size.
What is a deliberate defaulter?
HMRC defines a deliberate defaulter as a person who incurs a relevant penalty. Specifically, this penalty arises in one of two situations:
- deliberate errors in their tax returns
- deliberately failing to comply with their tax obligations.
In other words, HMRC treats deliberate behaviour very differently from genuine mistakes.
When can HMRC publish a taxpayer’s details?
The law allows HMRC to publish a taxpayer’s details only when all three of these conditions apply:
- HMRC has carried out an investigation.
- HMRC has charged the person one or more penalties for deliberate defaults.
- Those penalties involve tax exceeding £25,000.
Importantly, these publication rules don’t apply to taxpayers who make an unprompted disclosure. Likewise, they don’t apply to those who make a satisfactory fully prompted disclosure. Therefore, coming forward early can make a real difference.
How long do the details stay online?
HMRC keeps a tax defaulter’s details on its website for a maximum of 12 months. This period starts from the date HMRC first publishes them. Furthermore, HMRC doesn’t store these details in the National Archives. Even so, being named publicly can still harm a business’s reputation.
What does this mean for you?
When HMRC publishes latest deliberate tax defaulters list updates, it sends a strong message. Above all, HMRC wants taxpayers to know it takes deliberate non-compliance seriously. Consequently, you should review your tax affairs carefully and correct any errors quickly. If you have concerns, a voluntary disclosure could protect you from publication.
Get in touch
Are you worried about your tax position? Our experienced tax team can review your affairs and guide you through the disclosure process. Contact us today for confidential, expert advice.
