HMRC is to raid bank accounts for unpaid tax without permission under new powers, expert warns

The taxman is targeting tax evaders by deducting cash directly from their accounts. The National Audit Office says HMRC is increasingly stuck chasing older debts that are harder to collect. Updated guidance also lists wage deductions and the seizure of possessions as options. In Scotland, sheriff officers can give debtors just 14 days to pay up.

HMRC insists enforcement is a 'last resort' and promises to contact people first.

Officials can also adjust your tax code to claw money back through your earnings.

Any tax overpayments you are owed can be swallowed up to clear outstanding debts.

The HeraldExpert warns HMRC can now raid bank accounts for unpaid tax money without permission London Evening StandardHMRC dealing with older tax debts which are harder to collect – report - London Evening Standard Yorkshire PostHMRC faces increasing problem of older tax debts, says National Audit Office - Yorkshire Post The TimesHMRC to deduct money directly from bank accounts of tax evaders Daily RecordHMRC issues updated warning over unpaid tax bills and 14-day deadline

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