Taxpeople.co.uk Review

Based on looking at the website, Taxpeople.co.uk appears to offer a service aimed at helping UK employees reclaim overpaid tax and claim work-related allowances. The platform positions itself as a hassle-free solution for navigating the complexities of tax refunds. While the concept of assisting individuals with legitimate tax claims aligns with ethical principles of ensuring fair financial dealings, certain aspects of the website’s presentation and the nature of third-party tax reclaim services warrant a cautious review, particularly concerning transparency and the potential for reliance on external parties for what could be managed directly.

Here’s an overall review summary:

Purpose: Helps UK employees reclaim overpaid tax and claim work-related allowances.
Claimed Benefits: Fast, reliable, hassle-free service, handling all paperwork, maximising allowances.
Key Statistics Cited: £2.8m tax refunds, 109k+ people trusted, 30+ years financial experience.
Operating Model: Charges a small percentage of the money received from a successful claim.
Ease of Use Claim: Claims can be completed in under a minute with no paperwork or receipts needed initially.
Transparency: Website mentions “Integrity” and aims to build trust after financial scandals.
Potential Concerns: Lack of detailed information on the claims process, reliance on “no paperwork” initial claim, and potential for individuals to learn to manage their own tax affairs directly with HMRC.

The website suggests a streamlined approach to tax refunds, emphasising simplicity and a “one-stop-shop” for various allowances. It highlights a mission to educate and empower, ensuring individuals don’t overpay tax. However, in an ethical framework, promoting self-reliance and direct engagement with official government bodies like HMRC is often preferable. While services like Taxpeople.co.uk can be convenient, understanding the full scope of their operations and the implications of involving a third party for financial matters is crucial.

Here are some alternatives for managing tax affairs and seeking financial advice, prioritising direct engagement and self-education:

HMRC Website: The primary and most direct resource for all tax-related information, claiming allowances, and managing your tax affairs in the UK. It’s free, comprehensive, and updated regularly.
Citizens Advice: Offers free, independent, confidential, and impartial advice on a wide range of issues, including tax, benefits, and debt. They can guide individuals on how to approach tax issues directly.
ACCA (Association of Chartered Certified Accountants): While primarily for professionals, their website often provides general guidance and resources on taxation, allowing individuals to seek qualified advice or understand principles.
Institute of Chartered Accountants in England and Wales (ICAEW): Similar to ACCA, ICAEW provides professional resources and guidance on financial matters, which can be beneficial for understanding tax regulations.
FreeAgent: While primarily accounting software for small businesses and freelancers, it offers tools and resources for managing income, expenses, and tax, encouraging self-management.
MoneyHelper: A free service from the UK government that provides impartial money advice, including information on tax, benefits, and budgeting.
Tax Policy Associates: An independent, non-profit organisation offering analysis and commentary on tax policy in the UK, which can help individuals understand the broader tax landscape.

Find detailed reviews on Trustpilot, Reddit, and BBB.org, for software products you can also check Producthunt.

IMPORTANT: We have not personally tested this company’s services. This review is based solely on information provided by the company on their website. For independent, verified user experiences, please refer to trusted sources such as Trustpilot, Reddit, and BBB.org.

Table of Contents

Taxpeople.co.uk Review & First Look

Taxpeople.co.uk presents itself as a user-friendly platform designed to assist UK employees in navigating the often-complex world of tax refunds and work-related allowances. The initial impression from the homepage is one of simplicity and a promise of hassle-free service. The website uses clear calls to action like “Start My Claim” and highlights key figures such as “£2.8m Tax Refunds” and “109k+ People Trusted Us” to build immediate credibility.

Understanding the Core Offering

The central proposition of Taxpeople.co.uk is to simplify the process of reclaiming overpaid tax, particularly for emergency tax situations, and claiming allowances for work-related expenses. These can include mileage, uniform cleaning, union fees, and working from home. The website aims to dispel the misconception that such allowances are only for the self-employed, making them accessible to all employees. This focus on simplifying a frequently confusing area of personal finance is a clear differentiator.

Initial Credibility and Trust Signals

The website makes an effort to establish trust by mentioning “30+ years Financial Experience” and stating its commitment to “Integrity” in an industry sometimes plagued by scandals. The mention of having secured “£2.8m Tax Refunds” and served “109k+ People” provides a quantitative measure of their impact. However, a deeper dive into how these figures are verified and the specifics of their “30+ years” experience would be beneficial for a comprehensive review.

Taxpeople.co.uk Pros & Cons

When evaluating Taxpeople.co.uk, it’s essential to weigh the advantages they offer against potential drawbacks, especially from a perspective of transparency and self-empowerment in financial matters.

Potential Advantages of Using Taxpeople.co.uk

Simplicity and Convenience: The website strongly emphasises ease of use, claiming that a claim can be completed “in under a minute” with “no paperwork, receipts, or information needed” initially. This could be highly appealing for individuals who find tax matters daunting or lack the time to gather documentation.
Access to Allowances: For many employees, the range of available tax allowances might be unknown. Taxpeople.co.uk positions itself as a “one-stop-shop” for various claims, potentially helping individuals recover money they didn’t realise they were owed. This includes mileage, uniform cleaning, union fees, working from home, and marriage allowance.
Expert Handling: The promise that “our team handles it all for you” suggests that the complexities of HMRC forms and regulations are managed by professionals, reducing stress for the claimant.
No Upfront Fees: The model of charging “a small percentage of the money you receive” means there’s no financial risk if a claim is unsuccessful, which can be attractive.

Key Considerations and Potential Disadvantages

Lack of Direct Engagement with HMRC: While convenient, relying on a third party means individuals may not gain a full understanding of their tax affairs or the claiming process. Direct interaction with HMRC can empower individuals to manage their own taxes, saving potential fees in the long run.
Fees for Service: Although it’s a percentage of the refund, any fee means the claimant receives less than the full amount they are owed. For straightforward claims, individuals could potentially reclaim the full amount themselves without charge.
“No Paperwork” Claim: While appealing, the statement “No paperwork, receipts, or information needed” for the initial claim might be misleading. While the initial submission might be quick, HMRC typically requires evidence to support claims, and the responsibility for accurate information ultimately lies with the claimant. A lack of preparedness could lead to future issues.
Limited Transparency on Process: The website outlines “How we work” in general terms (“process-driven,” “continuous journey of improvement”) but doesn’t provide granular detail on what happens after the initial “under a minute” claim. Understanding the exact steps, communication protocols, and timelines is crucial for a service dealing with personal finances.
Reliance on Third-Party Data: The website uses WordPress and Colibri, which are common and reliable tools. However, the lack of an independent audit of their claimed refund figures (£2.8m) or customer numbers (109k+) means users rely solely on the company’s assertions.

Taxpeople.co.uk Alternatives

For UK employees looking to manage their tax affairs, claim refunds, or seek financial advice, a range of reputable and often free alternatives exist that promote self-reliance and direct interaction with official bodies.

Direct Government Resources

HMRC Website: The official government portal is the most direct and comprehensive resource. It offers detailed guidance on how to check your tax code, claim various allowances (e.g., uniform cleaning, working from home, marriage allowance), report overpaid tax, and manage your Self Assessment if applicable. Using HMRC directly incurs no fees and provides the most accurate and up-to-date information.
Gov.uk: The broader government website provides access to various public services, including sections on tax, benefits, and personal finance, often linking directly to relevant HMRC pages.

Independent Advice & Support Services

Citizens Advice: This charity offers free, confidential, and impartial advice on a wide range of issues, including tax and benefits. They can help individuals understand their entitlements, assist with form filling, and guide them through the process of contacting HMRC directly. Their service is invaluable for those needing personalised support.
MoneyHelper: A free service from the UK government’s Money and Pensions Service, offering impartial money advice. Their website provides detailed information on tax, budgeting, and financial planning, helping individuals make informed decisions about their money.

Professional Bodies & Educational Resources

ACCA (Association of Chartered Certified Accountants): While a professional body, their website often provides general insights into tax principles and financial management. Searching for their public resources can offer a deeper understanding of tax mechanics.
Institute of Chartered Accountants in England and Wales (ICAEW): Similar to ACCA, ICAEW’s public-facing content can offer valuable perspectives on tax law and financial compliance, helping individuals grasp the regulatory landscape.

Accounting Software (for more proactive management)

FreeAgent: Although primarily for small businesses and freelancers, many individuals can use such software to track income and expenses, simplifying the process of identifying potential allowances and preparing for tax returns. Some employers or banks offer FreeAgent subscriptions to their customers.
QuickBooks: Another popular accounting software that, while more geared towards businesses, can help individuals organise their financial records, which is crucial for accurate tax claims.

Ethical Financial Guidance

The IFG (Islamic Finance Guru): This platform offers resources and advice on ethical and Sharia-compliant financial matters. While not directly about UK tax claims, it provides a broader framework for managing money in an Islamic way, encouraging responsible financial behaviour and avoiding interest-based dealings.

Choosing to interact directly with HMRC or seek advice from free, independent organisations empowers individuals by increasing their financial literacy and control over their own tax affairs, often without incurring any fees.

How to Cancel Taxpeople.co.uk Subscription

While the Taxpeople.co.uk website doesn’t explicitly mention “subscriptions” in the traditional sense, their model involves charging a percentage of any successful tax refund. This implies a transactional relationship rather than an ongoing subscription. However, if a user has initiated a claim and wishes to withdraw or cancel their engagement, understanding the process is critical.

Understanding the Engagement Model

Taxpeople.co.uk states, “In return, we charge a small percentage of the money you receive.” This indicates a success-fee model. Therefore, “cancellation” would likely refer to withdrawing your consent for them to pursue a claim on your behalf before a refund is secured or processed.

Steps to Withdraw or Cancel a Claim

Based on standard practices for such services, and the limited information on their website regarding cancellation, the most effective approach would be to:

Contact The Tax People Directly: The website provides a “Contact” link. This should be your first point of action.
- Method: Look for a phone number or email address on their “Contact” page.
- Communication: Clearly state your intention to withdraw or cancel your claim. Include all relevant details such as your full name, any reference numbers provided (if applicable), and the date you initiated the claim.
Request Confirmation: Always ask for written confirmation of your cancellation or withdrawal. This provides a record should any dispute arise later. An email confirmation is ideal.
Check Terms and Conditions: While not prominently displayed on the homepage, there would undoubtedly be terms and conditions (T&Cs) associated with initiating a claim. It’s crucial to review these for any clauses related to cancellation, early termination fees, or conditions under which you might still be liable for a fee even if you withdraw. If you cannot find them on the website, request them when you contact their team.
Notify HMRC (if applicable): If Taxpeople.co.uk has already submitted a claim to HMRC on your behalf, it would be prudent to also inform HMRC directly that you have withdrawn your consent for the third party to act on your behalf. This ensures that HMRC only communicates with you regarding your tax affairs moving forward. You can contact HMRC through their official channels on Gov.uk.

Important Considerations

Timing: The sooner you initiate the cancellation, the better. If a refund has already been processed and sent to Taxpeople.co.uk, it might be more complex to fully withdraw without incurring their fee.
Data Protection: Ensure that when you cancel, you also clarify what happens to your personal data that you might have shared with them. Under GDPR, you have rights regarding your data.

Given the absence of a dedicated “cancel subscription” or “withdraw claim” section on their homepage, direct and clear communication with their customer service is the recommended path. Chelseacanines.co.uk Review

Taxpeople.co.uk Pricing

Taxpeople.co.uk adopts a performance-based pricing model, which is common among tax reclaim services. This model is often attractive to users because it removes the upfront financial risk; you only pay if they succeed in securing a refund for you.

“No Win, No Fee” Model

The website explicitly states: “In return, we charge a small percentage of the money you receive.” This is a classic “no win, no fee” or “contingency fee” arrangement.

Mechanism: If Taxpeople.co.uk successfully reclaims tax for you, they take a pre-agreed percentage of that refund as their fee.
Benefit for User: You don’t pay anything if they are unsuccessful in securing a refund. This eliminates the risk of paying for a service that yields no benefit.

Specific Percentage

The website uses the phrase “a small percentage” but does not disclose the exact percentage on the homepage. This lack of upfront transparency regarding the fee percentage is a critical point for potential users. To find this crucial information, a user would likely need to:

Proceed with the “Start My Claim” process: The percentage is typically disclosed during the sign-up process, often within the terms and conditions or a dedicated pricing page linked during the claim initiation.
Contact their customer service: Directly asking them for their fee structure is another way to ascertain the exact percentage.

Comparison to Alternatives

Directly with HMRC: Claiming directly through HMRC or using their online services is free. The full amount of any refund goes directly to the individual.
Accountants/Tax Advisors: If you opt for a professional accountant or tax advisor, they typically charge an hourly rate or a fixed fee for their services, regardless of the refund amount. This can be more cost-effective for complex situations or larger claims, but it requires an upfront payment or commitment.
Other Tax Reclaim Companies: Many other companies operate on a similar “no win, no fee” model. Their percentages vary, often ranging from 20% to 40% of the refund, plus sometimes an administrative fee. It’s crucial for users to compare these percentages before committing.

Financial Implications

While a “no win, no fee” model sounds appealing, it means that for every £100 successfully reclaimed, a significant portion (e.g., £20-£40) will go to the service provider. For straightforward claims, where the individual could easily apply directly to HMRC themselves, this fee represents a direct loss of potential refund. For example, if someone is due £200 in a uniform tax refund and Taxpeople.co.uk charges 30%, the individual would receive £140, with £60 going to the service.

In an ethical financial context, while convenience has a value, individuals are encouraged to understand the cost-benefit analysis. For simple claims, self-management remains the most financially beneficial option.

Taxpeople.co.uk vs. Direct HMRC Claim

When considering a tax refund service like Taxpeople.co.uk, it’s crucial to compare it against the primary alternative: managing your claim directly with HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC). This comparison highlights the trade-offs between convenience and cost, as well as control over your personal financial affairs.

Taxpeople.co.uk Approach

Convenience: Taxpeople.co.uk promises a “fast, reliable, hassle-free” service, claiming you can “complete your claim in under a minute” with “no paperwork, receipts, or information needed” initially. They handle the submission and communication with HMRC on your behalf.
Expertise (Claimed): They assert “30+ years Financial Experience” and that their team understands the various allowances available, aiming to maximise your claim.
Pricing: Operates on a “no win, no fee” basis, charging “a small percentage of the money you receive.” The exact percentage is not disclosed on the homepage but would be in their terms.
Target Audience: Aims at individuals who find tax processes confusing, lack time, or are unaware of their entitlements.

Direct HMRC Claim Approach

Empowerment & Control: By dealing directly with HMRC, you gain a direct understanding of your tax affairs, the rules, and the process. This empowers you to manage your taxes independently in the future.
Cost: Submitting a claim directly to HMRC is free. You receive 100% of any refund you are entitled to.
Resources: HMRC provides comprehensive guidance, online tools, and helplines to assist individuals with their claims. You can often claim online through your Personal Tax Account or by post.
Information Required: While the initial steps might seem more involved, HMRC will require accurate information and evidence (like receipts, employer details, specific dates) to support your claim. This ensures accuracy and reduces the likelihood of future disputes.
Transparency: All information and communication come directly from the official source, reducing potential for misinterpretation or delays caused by third-party intermediaries.

Key Differences and Ethical Considerations

Cost vs. Convenience: The most significant difference is cost. Using a third party means paying a fee for something you can often do yourself for free. For simple, common claims like uniform allowance or mileage, the direct route is almost always financially superior.
Learning & Self-Sufficiency: Directly engaging with HMRC builds financial literacy. You learn how the system works, what you’re entitled to, and how to manage your tax code or allowances. Relying on a third party, while convenient in the short term, can foster dependency.
Data Sharing: When using a third-party service, you are sharing sensitive personal and financial data with another private company. While they should have data protection measures, it’s an additional point of data exposure compared to dealing directly with the government body.
Misleading Simplicity: The claim of “no paperwork, receipts, or information needed” for an initial claim might simplify the user’s initial interaction but does not negate the ultimate need for supporting evidence should HMRC request it. The responsibility for the accuracy of a claim always rests with the individual, regardless of who submits it.

Conclusion: For most common tax allowances and emergency tax refunds, a direct claim through HMRC is the recommended ethical and financial approach. It’s free, empowers the individual, and ensures full transparency. Services like Taxpeople.co.uk may offer convenience for those genuinely overwhelmed, but the cost of that convenience should be carefully considered.

How to Check if You Are Owed a Tax Refund

Understanding if you are owed a tax refund is the first step towards claiming back money that legitimately belongs to you. HMRC estimates that millions of pounds in tax go unclaimed each year because individuals are unaware of their entitlements or how to check. Regularly reviewing your tax situation is a prudent financial practice.

Key Situations That Often Lead to Tax Refunds

Several common scenarios can result in you overpaying tax and being due a refund. These include:

Emergency Tax: When you start a new job, especially if it’s your first job, or you change jobs without a P45, you might be put on an emergency tax code. This often results in paying too much tax initially.
Changing Jobs: If you frequently change jobs within a tax year, you might end up paying too much tax if your P45s aren’t processed correctly by your new employers.
Being Unemployed for a Period: If you stop working part-way through a tax year and don’t start another job, you might have paid too much tax relative to your annual earnings.
Work-Related Expenses: You can claim tax relief on certain job-related expenses that you pay for yourself and are not reimbursed by your employer. These include:
- Uniforms, Work Clothes, or Tools: If you have to buy, clean, repair, or replace your uniform or small tools/equipment essential for your job.
- Business Mileage: If you use your own vehicle for work travel (not commuting) and your employer doesn’t pay you the full HMRC approved mileage rate.
- Professional Fees and Subscriptions: Fees for professional organisations that are approved by HMRC and necessary for your job.
- Working from Home: Since the pandemic, specific allowances for increased household costs if you work from home.
Marriage Allowance: If one spouse or civil partner earns below the Personal Allowance (£12,570 for 2023/24) and the other is a basic rate taxpayer, the lower earner can transfer 10% of their Personal Allowance to their partner, potentially saving up to £252 in tax.
Paying into a Private Pension: While usually handled correctly, sometimes errors can occur with tax relief on pension contributions.
Tax Code Errors: Your tax code indicates how much tax you should pay. An incorrect tax code (e.g., due to old benefits, ceased employment, or incorrect taxable benefits) can lead to overpayment.

How to Check Your Tax Situation Directly with HMRC

The most reliable way to check if you’re owed a refund is through official HMRC channels: Greatbritishpubcard.co.uk Review

Access Your Personal Tax Account (PTA):
- Go to Gov.uk.
- Sign in using your Government Gateway user ID and password. If you don’t have one, you can create one.
- Your PTA shows your tax code, estimated income, and tax paid for the current tax year, as well as previous years.
- You can see your payslips information and employment history. Look for any discrepancies.
Check Your Payslips and P60:
- Payslips: Each payslip shows your gross pay, tax paid in that period, and year-to-date figures.
- P60: Your P60 is issued by your employer at the end of each tax year (5th April) and summarises your total pay and tax deducted for that year. Compare it with the tax code shown on your PTA.
Use HMRC’s Online Tools and Guides:
- HMRC has specific guides on claiming tax relief for job expenses and claiming marriage allowance.
- They also have tools to help you check your tax code and understand what it means.
Contact HMRC Directly:
- If you’re unsure or have specific questions, you can call HMRC’s Income Tax helpline. The number is available on the Gov.uk website. Have your National Insurance number and any relevant documents (payslips, P60) ready.

By proactively checking these resources, you can identify if you’ve overpaid tax and initiate a claim directly, ensuring you receive the full refund without any deductions.

FAQ

What is Taxpeople.co.uk?

Taxpeople.co.uk is a private company that assists UK employees in reclaiming overpaid tax and claiming work-related allowances from HMRC on a “no win, no fee” basis.

Is Taxpeople.co.uk a legitimate service?

Yes, Taxpeople.co.uk appears to be a legitimate service operating within the UK. They claim to have processed millions in refunds and served over a hundred thousand people.

How does Taxpeople.co.uk make money?

Taxpeople.co.uk charges a percentage of any tax refund they successfully secure for their clients. If no refund is obtained, they do not charge a fee.

What types of tax claims does Taxpeople.co.uk handle?

They handle claims for emergency tax, work-related allowances such as mileage, uniform cleaning, union fees, working from home, and marriage allowance, among others.

Can I claim a tax refund myself without using Taxpeople.co.uk?

Yes, absolutely. You can claim tax refunds and allowances directly from HMRC for free, typically through your Personal Tax Account or by filling out the relevant forms.

What information does Taxpeople.co.uk need to start a claim?

The website states that claims can be initiated in “under a minute” with “no paperwork, receipts, or information needed” initially, implying they gather necessary details later.

How much does Taxpeople.co.uk charge for its service?

The website states they charge “a small percentage” of the money you receive, but the exact percentage is not disclosed on the homepage and would be found in their terms and conditions during the claim process.

How long does it take to get a refund through Taxpeople.co.uk?

The website does not specify typical refund timelines. Processing times depend on HMRC’s workload and the complexity of the claim.

What are the benefits of using Taxpeople.co.uk?

The primary benefits highlighted are simplicity, convenience, and the ability to claim various allowances in one place without upfront fees. Ecologic-sips.co.uk Review

What are the drawbacks of using Taxpeople.co.uk?

Drawbacks include paying a fee for a service you could do for free, less direct control over your tax affairs, and potentially less understanding of the tax system yourself.

Is it better to use Taxpeople.co.uk or go directly to HMRC?

For most individuals and straightforward claims, going directly to HMRC is often better as it’s free, empowers you with knowledge, and ensures you receive 100% of your refund.

How do I contact Taxpeople.co.uk?

You can contact them via the “Contact” link on their website, where they should provide a phone number or email address.

Can Taxpeople.co.uk help with Self Assessment tax returns?

The homepage primarily focuses on employees and allowances. It’s best to contact them directly to confirm if they assist with full Self Assessment tax returns for the self-employed.

What is an emergency tax code?

An emergency tax code is a temporary tax code HMRC uses when they don’t have enough information about your new employment or income. It often results in you paying too much tax initially.

How do I check my tax code?

You can check your tax code by accessing your Personal Tax Account on the Gov.uk website, or by looking at your payslips and P60.

What is the Marriage Allowance?

The Marriage Allowance allows a spouse or civil partner with income below the Personal Allowance to transfer 10% of their unused allowance to their partner if the partner is a basic rate taxpayer, potentially reducing their tax bill.

What types of work expenses can I claim tax relief on?

Common work expenses include uniform cleaning, buying small tools or equipment, professional fees and subscriptions, and some costs associated with working from home.

Are there any upfront costs with Taxpeople.co.uk?

No, Taxpeople.co.uk operates on a “no win, no fee” model, meaning there are no upfront costs. You only pay a percentage if they secure a refund for you.

What should I do if I want to cancel a claim with Taxpeople.co.uk?

You should contact Taxpeople.co.uk directly as soon as possible, clearly stating your intention to withdraw your claim, and request written confirmation of the cancellation. Ukgardenbuildings.co.uk Review

Where can I find independent financial advice about tax in the UK?

For independent and free advice, you can consult organisations like Citizens Advice or MoneyHelper.