In accordance with previous HMRC announcements, SDLT returns produced using 2D Bar Coding/HMRC's CD ROM will not be accepted from 1 November 2008 unless they fall into specific categories which can't be e-filed. (A separate note was issued by HMRC after this meeting which details these transaction categories.)
HMRC is investing further resources to improve its guidance. They have set themselves a target of the end of March 2009 to achieve their goals on guidance.
There has been a steady increase in electronic submissions from 56 per cent in May 2008 to 65 per cent in September 2008.
HMRC, on a temporary basis, stopped phoning customers to discuss problems with the returns and started to reissue SDLT8s (requests for further information). HMRC has subsequently resumed phoning customers, but it is probable that they will permanently stop this practice shortly.
HMRC mentioned dates in the future (up to two whole days consecutively) when the online system would be unavailable, due to requirements of HMRC generally (not just Stamp Taxes). It was emphasised that such downtimes undermine the credibility of the online system and should be programmed at weekends or after working hours.
The PDF guidance has been replaced by HTML guidance, last updated in December 2007. HMRC is shortly to produce two new PDF guidance notes, one covering paper returns and the other, online submission.
