First things first: don’t panic.

An enquiry doesn’t mean your claim is being rejected — it just means HMRC wants to take a closer look.

In our experience, you should expect an enquiry to add an extra 3–6 months to your payout timeline.

Here’s how it usually plays out:

🔍 You’ll receive an initial round of queries — these tend to be broad and high level.

📄 Once you respond, HMRC often follows up with a second round of more detailed, specific questions.  Usually the enquiry is closed after this, but it’s possible that further questions may be asked.

It’s critical that your responses to HMRC are carefully and accurately formulated, and it’s crucial you seek your Accountant’s input here (or, ideally, have them respond on your behalf) given the tax legislation at play.

One frustrating part to note once a case worker at HMRC is assigned, your claim usually can’t be reassigned to another caseworker, even if your caseworker goes on holiday. So if your enquiry is opened around August or Christmas, expect even slower turnaround times.

The good news?

At Urban Ledgers, we’ve never had a claim denied following an enquiry (touch wood!) - they have all been paid out in full as per the submission. 

So stay calm, respond thoroughly, and keep your Accountant close.



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