Terms of Service

1. Introduction

1.1. Welcome to our website. Please read these terms and conditions carefully, as they affect your legal rights. You must be at least 18 years of age to use this Website. By using this website, you agree to comply with and be bound by these terms and conditions. If you do not agree, please stop using the website immediately.

1.2. These Terms of Service govern your relationship with TaxChimp in relation to your use of our website and any services you order. By accepting these terms, you gain access to our online platform to submit your tax return information to www.taxchimp.co.uk for preparation and submission to HMRC. You must accept these Terms of Service before placing an order. If you do not agree to these terms, you will not be able to order services through our website.

1.3. Please note that these Terms of Service, as well as any contracts, are in the English language only.

2. Website Use and Liability

2.1. The content on this website is for general information and may be subject to change without notice. We make no warranties or guarantees regarding the accuracy, timeliness, performance, completeness, or suitability of the information provided. You acknowledge that the content may contain inaccuracies, and we exclude liability for such errors to the fullest extent permitted by law.

2.2. Your use of any information or materials on this website is at your own risk. It is your responsibility to ensure that any products, services, or information you access through the site meet your specific requirements.

2.3. All content on this website, unless uploaded by users, is the property of TaxChimp Ltd, including the design, layout, and graphics. Reproduction is prohibited except as stated in the copyright notice. Unauthorized use may result in damages or legal action.

2.4. You agree not to copy, distribute, modify, or create derivative works from any content or use our intellectual property without our express permission.

2.5. You may not use the website for the following purposes:

  • To damage the website or interfere with others’ use or enjoyment of it.
  • To engage in any harmful, unlawful, abusive, harassing, or illegal activities, or breach any applicable laws or regulations.
  • To make, transmit, or store electronic copies of copyrighted content without permission from the owner.

2.6. This website may include links to other sites for your convenience. These links do not imply endorsement, and we are not responsible for the content of linked sites.

2.7. Your use of this website and any disputes arising from it are governed by the laws of England, Northern Ireland, Scotland, and Wales.

3. Definitions

3.1. In these Terms of Service, the following terms have the meanings set out below, unless the context requires otherwise:

  • " Contract " means a contract for the purchase and sale of services.
  • " The Service/Services " means the services provided by us as specified in your Service Order and confirmed in our Service Order Confirmation.
  • " TaxChimp/We/Us/Our/Ourselves " refers to the owner of the website, located at Unit 353, 1st Floor, 415 High Street, Stratford, London, E15 4QZ, UK, with company registration number 15650403. "You" refers to the user or viewer of the website.

3.2. Our services are provided through our website, www.taxchimp.co.uk. As a registered Tax Agent, we prepare Self-Assessment tax returns (SA100 and associated forms) for individuals and utilise HMRC's electronic filing facilities.

4. Site Access and Responsibility

4.1. Access to our site is free, but you are responsible for any arrangements required to access it. We provide access "as is" and may alter, suspend, or discontinue it at any time with reasonable notice. We are not liable if the site is unavailable at any time. TaxChimp agrees, as part of its fee, to allow the client to remain registered on the website and use the website's facilities.

5. Account Information and Cancellation

5.1. You must ensure that the details provided during sign-up or throughout the tax return process are accurate and up-to-date. Please notify us immediately of any changes to your information to ensure effective communication.

5.2. If we determine you have breached these terms, we may suspend or cancel your account without notice.

5.3. You may cancel your registration at any time by emailing us at info@taxchimp.co.uk or by using the 'Delete Account' option within your account.

6 Security and Account Responsibility:

6.1. Client Responsibilities:

  • Keep your password secure and confidential.
  • Be responsible for all activity in your account and the data you provide.
  • Take reasonable measures to prevent unauthorized access to your account and notify us promptly if it occurs.
  • Use the service in accordance with the knowledge base and applicable laws.

6.2. When you register, you must create a secure password, which you should keep confidential. If we detect a potential security breach, we may require a password change or suspend your account, notifying you accordingly. You are also responsible for ensuring that all users accessing the website through your connection comply with these terms.

6.3. You must not misuse the website by introducing harmful software (e.g., viruses, malware) or attempting unauthorized access to the website, its servers, or databases. Denial-of-service attacks or similar malicious activities are prohibited. Violating these terms may lead to criminal charges under the Computer Misuse Act 1990, and we may report such breaches to law enforcement.

6.4. We are not liable for any loss or damage caused by malicious attacks, viruses, or other harmful material that may infect your device while using the website.

7. Security and Confidentiality

7.1. Anti-Money Laundering (AML) Compliance: As required by UK anti-money laundering legislation, we may request and retain certain documents to verify your identity and perform relevant checks.

7.2. Confidentiality: Your communications with us are confidential. However, we may disclose information if required by law or regulatory authorities. We will not disclose your information unless authorized by you, except where required by law or for peer review purposes.

7.3. Conflict of Interest: If we identify any potential conflict of interest, we will notify you and take reasonable steps to resolve it, ensuring safeguards are in place to protect your interests.

7.4. Data Protection: We comply with the Data Protection Act 1998 and process your personal data as outlined in our Privacy Policy. By using our services, you confirm that all information you provide is accurate and complete.

7.5. Email and Electronic Communication Risks: While we use virus-scanning software, email and electronic communications carry inherent risks, including non-receipt, delay, or interception. If you prefer not to accept these risks, please notify us, and we can arrange an alternative solution.

8. Fixed Fee Structure

8.1. Our services are typically provided on a fixed-fee basis, with fees agreed upon upfront. If additional work is required, we will provide you with a revised fee estimate before proceeding.

9. Termination

9.1. Termination Rights:

  • Termination: Either party can terminate the agreement at any time. You can delete your account or notify TaxChimp via email. The agreement will continue unless either party initiates termination.
  • Mutual Termination: If both parties agree to terminate, written notice is required, specifying the termination date.
  • If you fail to cooperate or provide misleading information, we may terminate the agreement immediately. Upon termination, we will make reasonable efforts to complete any ongoing work, unless legal or regulatory requirements prevent us from doing so.

9.2. Effect of Termination: Upon termination of the service, the user's access to the online platform and associated services will be suspended. The Company will complete any pending tax return preparation services for which payment has been received prior to the effective termination date.

9.3. Return of Data: Upon termination, the Company will offer the user the option to download their tax return data, subject to applicable data retention policies.

10. Retention of Documents

10.1. You are responsible for retaining copies of documents and records related to your tax affairs. We may collect and process this data for the purpose of providing services but are not responsible for keeping copies for you.

11. Modifications

11.1. Service Changes: TaxChimp reserves the right to modify its services, security practices, and policies at any time. We encourage users to regularly review these terms to stay informed of changes, particularly regarding data protection and security.

11.2. Scope of Services: These terms apply only to individuals using TaxChimp’s services for personal tax returns, not for business-related services.

12. Professional Advice Disclaimer

12.1. For the avoidance of doubt, TaxChimp is not a professional services firm and does not provide legal, financial, or tax advice. We offer a service that allows you to submit information for the preparation of your personal tax return, which we will file digitally with HMRC upon your approval. This service is not a substitute for professional advice, and TaxChimp accepts no liability for how you use the information provided. TaxChimp is not responsible for liaising with HMRC beyond the submission of your tax return. You, or any authorised representative you appoint, will be responsible for direct communication with HMRC, including any queries related to your tax return. Any information provided by TaxChimp through our website or other communication channels is not intended to be, and should not be interpreted as, tax advice.

13. Application Submission Process and Services

13.1. When you submit an application for tax return services through our website, it is considered an offer. TaxChimp reserves the right to accept or reject any application without explanation. Once accepted, your application will be processed as agreed. By submitting financial data, you are placing an order for the applicable fee. It is your responsibility to review and understand all details, including fees, before proceeding. If you have any questions, please contact us during UK office hours. While we strive to respond promptly, we cannot guarantee immediate replies. It is your responsibility to seek any necessary advice before submitting your application.

14. Property of Data

14.1. All data you provide, including documents uploaded to our system, remains your property. TaxChimp is granted permission to use this data solely for preparing your tax return and delivering the service.

15. Service Availability

15.1. TaxChimp offers services through electronic filing with HMRC. Your tax return will generally be prepared within 48 working hours from the receipt of all necessary information.

16. Service Limitations

16.1. TaxChimp offers a Self-Assessment Tax Return Filing Only service. The scope of our services and the associated fees may change based on regulatory requirements or TaxChimp’s ability to continue offering the service at the current level. If your case exceeds the scope of our service, we reserve the right to withdraw from providing the service.

16.2. TaxChimp does not act as the client's registered tax agent in providing this service. The client is solely responsible for managing their relationship with HMRC.

17. Third-Party Responsibility and Services Overview

17.1. HMRC Liaison: TaxChimp is not responsible for liaising with HMRC on your behalf, except for submitting your tax return. You are responsible for managing direct communications with HMRC.

17.2. Online Services Provided:

  • Online platform for registering and submitting data for personal tax returns so TaxChimp can prepare the tax return.
  • Secure online payment facility for our fees.
  • We will prepare and complete your tax return based solely on the financial information, documents, and explanations you provide. This includes preparing your tax return, any relevant supporting schedules, and calculating your self-assessment liability, including any National Insurance Contributions, as well as any required payments on account (POA) that need to be made.
  • Draft tax return for your review and approval.
  • Final submission of the approved tax return to HMRC with a confirmation reference.

18. Client Responsibilities

18.1. Accuracy and Completeness: TaxChimp prepares your tax return based on the information you provide. You are responsible for ensuring that this information is accurate and complete.

18.2. Review and Approval: You are responsible for reviewing and approving the draft tax return before it is filed to HMRC. TaxChimp is not liable for any errors or inaccuracies in the return due to incorrect information provided by you. Without your approval, we will not file your tax return with HMRC. Additionally, if there is a delay in your approval (for example, after the 31 January deadline for the selected tax year), you will be responsible for any penalties or late interest charges imposed by HMRC.

18.3. Tax Liabilities and HMRC Communications: You are responsible for any tax liabilities, penalties, late interest charges, or investigation costs imposed by HMRC as a result of your tax return. TaxChimp is not liable for any misreporting caused by inaccurate or incomplete information provided by you. Additionally, you are solely responsible for meeting any additional tax demands from HMRC and for claiming any rebates due.

19. Pricing and Payment Terms

19.1. Fees: Service fees are subject to change without prior notice. TaxChimp reserves the right to modify or discontinue services. Transaction errors may result in cancellation and a full refund.

19.2. Refunds: Refunds are subject to an administration charge and are only available after full payment is made. TaxChimp may charge a fee for processing refunds.

19.3. Payment: Fees must be paid before you approve your draft tax return, or within 21 days of us sending you the draft, whichever comes first. The fee is payable by card through the payment option provided on our website.

20. Turnaround Time and Service Guarantees

20.1. Service Turnaround: TaxChimp guarantees to prepare your tax return within 48 working hours after receiving all required information. You must approve the return, which may extend the preparation time.

20.2. Guarantee Exceptions: The 48-hour guarantee excludes weekends, bank holidays, and peak periods (e.g., December and January).

20.3. Late Preparation: If TaxChimp fails to meet the 48-hour preparation guarantee, you may be eligible for a discount, which will be a percentage agreed upon in advance through communication.

21. Enquiries, Amendments, and Filing Issues

21.1. Amendments: If HMRC requires changes to your tax return, TaxChimp will amend and refile it for a small fee if the changes are due to errors or missing information provided by you. If the error is on our part, we will refile the amended tax return to HMRC without any additional fees.

21.2. Enquiries: TaxChimp may provide guidance, suggestions, opinions, or general information to assist with tax return enquiries, but following this guidance is entirely at your discretion. We are not liable for the outcome, whether positive or negative, of any actions you take based on our suggestions. The support covers any issues arising from a tax return filed by TaxChimp on your behalf within the previous 12 months, but does not cover pre-existing issues, including any outstanding fines or liabilities at the time of submission.

22. Legal Rights and Dispute Resolution

22.1. Client Legal Rights: Clients retain their legal rights under consumer protection laws. Any disputes will be resolved through negotiation or formal dispute resolution.

22.2. Liability Limitations:

  • TaxChimp will provide services with reasonable care and skill. However, our liability to you, the client, is limited to the fees paid for the specific service you requested.
  • We will not be liable for any indirect, consequential, or incidental damages arising from the use or misuse of our services, including any loss of profits, data, or issues arising from third-party actions.
  • Our liability is limited to losses directly caused by our negligence or willful misconduct. We are not responsible for any losses arising from incomplete, inaccurate, or misleading information you provide, or from failure to act on the information or guidance we provide.

22.3. Indemnity: You agree to indemnify TaxChimp against any claims (including negligence) arising from the unauthorized disclosure of our guidance or opinions. This indemnity includes costs incurred in defending such claims, including our standard rates for defense time.

22.4. Third-Party Claims: Our services and guidance are intended solely for your use. We do not accept liability for third-party claims unless explicitly agreed in the engagement letter. Our advice is not meant for third parties who were not authorised to rely on our work.

22.5. Force Majeure: TaxChimp is not liable for failure to meet obligations due to circumstances beyond its control (e.g., acts of nature, government actions, technical issues).

23. Service Issues and Client Remedies

23.1. Service Satisfaction: TaxChimp is committed to providing excellent tax return filing services. If you encounter any issues, we will work to resolve them promptly and fairly.

23.2. Reporting Issues: If you experience any problems, please report them to us with as much detail as possible, including relevant documents or error messages.

23.3. Investigation & Resolution: Upon receiving your report, we will investigate the issue and make reasonable efforts to resolve it within a reasonable timeframe, keeping you informed of our progress.

23.4. Client Legal Rights: Your legal rights are protected under applicable consumer protection laws. You have the right to seek remedies if the service does not meet agreed-upon standards or if we breach the terms and conditions.

23.5. Feedback & Improvement: We value your feedback. It helps us improve our services, and we appreciate any suggestions for improvement.

23.6. Severability: If any part of this section is deemed invalid or unenforceable, the remaining terms will remain in effect.

24. Changes to Terms and Conditions

24.1. Updates to Terms: TaxChimp reserves the right to amend these terms at any time. Changes will take effect upon publication, and it’s your responsibility to review them regularly.

24.2. Transfer of Rights: TaxChimp may transfer its obligations and rights to a third party if needed, but your rights will remain unaffected. You may not transfer your rights without TaxChimp’s consent.

25. Governing Law and Jurisdiction

25.1. These Terms are governed by the laws of England and Wales. Any disputes will fall under the jurisdiction of the English and Welsh courts.

26. TaxChimp Ltd Details

TaxChimp Ltd is a company incorporated in England and Wales, with a company number 15650403 and a registered address of Unit 353, 1st Floor, and 415 High Street, Stratford, London, United Kingdom, E15. It operates the Website www.taxchimp.co.uk. You can contact TaxChimp Ltd by email at info@taxchimp.co.uk.