EY launches UK first ‘TaxChat’ – a quick, easy and cost effective digital solution for completing Self Assessment

EY has launched an innovative, on-demand tax service to help individuals complete their UK Self Assessment tax returns. EY TaxChat connects individuals with EY tax professionals in an easy-to-use digital environment, via app or online, making the process faster, easier and cost-efficient.

Why it was devised

11.5m UK tax payers were required to complete Self Assessment in 2019, according to HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC). However, EY research¹ shows many worry about getting something wrong if they do it themselves (33%) and think it complicated and time consuming (15%). A further 12% also said they can’t afford an accountant’s services.

How it works

EY TaxChat connects any individual who needs to complete a UK tax return with an EY adviser through a digital platform. Once they’ve downloaded the app or visited EY TaxChat online, they’ll be asked to answer a few simple questions about their tax affairs and will receive a personalised fee quote.

If they accept, they’ll be guided through the Self Assessment process by an EY adviser; the chat function allowing them to connect directly with their adviser at any time. Individuals can provide the necessary tax information by uploading documents, taking pictures with their mobile device or by keying in details directly. The EY adviser will prepare the tax return and, once it is ready for review, the individual can make payment before approving their tax return for filing with HMRC.

Who it’s for

It’s available to any individual required to file a UK tax return, however, it is most useful for those who would like to spend less time working on or worrying about tax and would value support from a tax professional.

Mark Lee, Financial Services Tax Partner at EY, commented: “Our research demonstrated a real need for this type of service. Many UK taxpayers find Self Assessment complex and time consuming and worry that they’ll get something wrong if they try and complete the form themselves. At the same time, many feel a traditional tax accountant’s services can be costly. EY TaxChat is a quick and easy way for individuals to complete their UK tax return, combining the convenience of a digital platform with the benefit of talking to real tax professionals to help them through the whole process.”

For more information, visit ey.com/uktaxchat. EY TaxChat can be downloaded on a mobile or tablet from the App Store or Google Play Store.