Taxman sets 'new technology' on eBay sellers in latest tax crackdown
For the UK Bayers out here:
Taxman sets 'new technology' on tradesmen, eBay sellers and even Avon ladies in latest tax crackdown
By Lee Boyce
Last updated at 6:15 PM on 8th February 2012
Everyone from Avon ladies to those holding Ann Summers or 'Jamie at Home' parties have been warned to get their finances in order ahead of a planned crackdown by the UK tax authority.
HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC) has used new technology to identify parts of the economy likely to have a high number of missing tax returns.
The flourishing 'direct selling' industry is one of these, as it is possible that many people new to direct selling are unaware they need to fill in a self-assessment tax return to declare their earnings.
The taxman will target those who receive income from selling goods direct to others, or are paid commission, for example through home-delivered catalogues or 'party plan' sales.
The cottage industry of home sales parties has flourished in recent years with Jamie Oliver parties and gatherings of The Pampered Chef particularly popular among stay-at-home mums in the Home Counties.
The boom in these kitchen sales echoes the popularity of Tupperware parties in the Seventies and Eighties.
'Jamie at Home' launched in 2009 but the taxman could equally be targeting more established industries such as door-to-door Avon sales.
HMRC's new campaign will also target tax evaders in a plethora of other industries, including builders and eBay sellers.
The taxman will target tradespeople working in the home improvement market – namely builders, roofers and bricklayers.
HMRC also reaffirmed previously announced plans to launch campaigns targeted at electricians and those who trade on e-marketplaces such as eBay, both of which it intends to launch before the end of next month. | 
