Thursday 8 January 2009

'Tax doesn't have to be TAXING' - yeah right!

That's what they tell us, week after week - it could only be the Inland Revenue.

I never seem to have time to do our tax returns (mine and OH) until January because of my working and mummy commitments, so after the new year the panic starts. I'm usually such a laid back character and takes things in ones own stride, but alas, when the Inland Revenue starts a calling, I just seem to turn into a quivering wreck. After sorting all the receipts and writing down figures, I started on the online form. After two hours of constant 'X ERROR' messages, blood boiling and many sleepless nights, I decided I had to call the Inland Revenue. The first call told me I had to speak to the technical IT helpline, they then told me it was a tax issue (which I suspected - user error ie., me) - the technical tax officer finally informed me that the error messages I kept getting was down to a technical problem their end. WHAT. After pulling my hair out for two hours the previous night, they casually state this problem. Believe me, tax is taxing! Anyway, I happily got past a couple of screens, only to be met with technical questions on loss adjustments - blah, blah, blah. I have to say that last year's paper form was a lot easier. Another phone call followed with a helpful, friendly and funny (yes, I did say funny) chap helping me and voila - all done (well mine anyway).

All I can say is, I slept like a baby last night!! (with the help of good ol spicey rum - purely medicial purposes).

I told my hubby last night that I felt like a huge weight had been lifted from my shoulders. He even helped with sorting his receipts out last night - I think he felt sorry for me, I don't usually get any help!

Life feels a lot better today and will be completing his return today - his is less complicated than mine.

Can't wait to start 'proper' work again and get the kiln going with some new creations. I have lots of ideas in my head and have been sketching new designs down so I don't forget them. As they say - watch this space.
Kathryn, Lazy Daisy

2 comments:

Caz said...

Luckily I dont have to worry about doing it this year but I know where to come for advice next year!
Caz x

Unknown said...

I'm almost an expert now!!!!

Good luck with next years.

My advice would be to keep your records up to date regularly (something I don't do and makes me panic lst minute). I'll try and be organised this year.